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Mikel Merino’s Brace Secures Spain’s Comeback Win Over Croatia in UEFA Nations League

Mikel Merino emerged as the unexpected hero by scoring twice in the second half, helping Spain overturn an early deficit and beat Croatia 2-1 at Stadion Poljud. This victory confirms Luis de la Fuente's squad a spot in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.

Spain dominated possession with 72%, yet fell behind in the 17th minute when Ivan Perisic capitalized on an assist from Igor Matanovic. Croatia's disciplined low block and 21 clearances made it difficult for Spain to find quality chances despite their territorial control.

The match turned after halftime following Merino's introduction. He equalized in the 61st minute, assisted by Dani Olmo, and clinched the winner in the 88th minute from a pass by Martin Zubimendi. Croatia's challenge was further weakened when Perisic received a second yellow card late on. Spain’s patience and bench depth secured their fourth straight win in Group 3.

Player Ratings

  • Goalkeeper & Defence
  • Unai Simon - 7/10: Made four saves, mostly facing counter-attacks. Could not stop Perisic's opener but kept calm and helped build play from the back.
  • Aymeric Laporte - 7/10: Key in maintaining Spain's high defensive line and recycling possession effectively. Strong in duels against Matanovic.
  • Marc Cucurella - 6/10: Worked hard on the left flank but struggled to deliver precise crosses against a tight Croatian defense. Defensively solid.
  • Pau Cubarsi - 6/10: Showed composure despite pressure, contributed with progressive passes searching for openings in Croatia's 4-5-1 setup.
  • Marc Pubill - 6/10: Provided width on the right, supported by Lamine Yamal’s inward runs, though cautious about Perisic’s counter threat.
  • Midfield
  • Rodri - 7/10: Controlled midfield with smart passing and positioning. Substituted at 71 minutes to add more verticality.
  • Pedri - 7/10: Effective operating in half-spaces against Modric and Kovacic, kept technical control amid loud home support before subbed off late.
  • Dani Olmo - 7/10: Main creative force in attack, set up Merino’s equalizer with clever movement between lines.
  • Attack
  • Alex Baena - 5/10: Struggled to influence play in the first half, replaced at halftime which sparked a turnaround.
  • Mikel Oyarzabal - 6/10: Worked hard but found few clear chances due to Croatia’s defensive efforts. Created space through selfless runs.
  • Lamine Yamal - 7/10: Faced double marking often, showed glimpses of skill before being subbed for a more direct approach.
  • Substitutes & Manager
  • Mikel Merino - 9/10: Came on at halftime and changed the game with two decisive goals.
  • Martin Zubimendi - 7/10: Entered at 71 minutes, provided the assist for the winning goal, adding energy and discipline.
  • Fermin Lopez - 6/10: Helped maintain tempo after replacing Rodri.
  • Victor Munoz - 5/10: Came on late and received a yellow card during intense closing moments.
  • Yeremy Pino - N/A: Brief late appearance to help see out the match.
  • Luis de la Fuente - 9/10: His decision to introduce Merino at halftime was pivotal, directly leading to both goals and the victory.

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