Written by
WorldCupSpain Editorial Team
Reviewed by
WorldCupSpain Editorial Desk
Updated
October 13, 2026
Methodology
Corrections
Spain secured their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a 2-1 comeback victory away to Croatia, extending an impressive unbeaten run and underlining their ability to solve difficult matches even when the performance is not straightforward.WHAT HAPPENED
Croatia took the lead in the 17th minute through Ivan Perisic, forcing Spain to chase the match. Spain had plenty of time to respond but Croatia remained competitive and protected their advantage into the second half.
The turning point came after the interval. Mikel Merino equalised in the 61st minute before the balance of the game changed further when Perisic was dismissed after receiving a second yellow card in the 79th minute.
Spain continued to push against ten men and were rewarded in the 89th minute when Merino scored his second goal of the night to complete the comeback.
The result moved Spain to 12 points from four Nations League matches and guaranteed their place in the quarter-finals. It also extended Spain's unbeaten sequence to 42 matches.
KEY CONTEXT
Spain entered the October international window in a strong position but the trip to Croatia presented a very different challenge from matches in which they had been able to establish control early.
Croatia showed that Spain can still be made uncomfortable, particularly when an opponent scores first and is able to protect space. That makes the result more useful than a comfortable victory would have been. Spain had to remain patient, react to changing circumstances and find a decisive moment late in the game.
Merino's contribution was especially important. Midfield goals give Spain another route to victory when attacking players are being contained. Two goals from a midfielder in a difficult away international are valuable not only for the result but also for the tactical options available to the team.
WHY IT MATTERS
Qualification with matches still remaining gives Spain breathing room for the final phase of the Nations League group stage. It also provides an opportunity to manage the squad while maintaining competitive standards.
The result demonstrates that Spain's current run is not built only on dominating weaker opponents. Winning after falling behind in Croatia required patience and resilience.
WORLDCUPSPAIN ANALYSIS
Spain remain one of the strongest national teams in international football, but the most encouraging part of this victory was not simply another win. Croatia forced Spain into a situation where possession and technical quality alone were not enough.
Spain needed a response, and Merino provided it.
For a team expected to compete for major trophies, matches like this are useful tests. Tournament football often produces games where the favourite falls behind, an opponent defends compactly or the decisive goal arrives late.
Spain showed they can stay composed under those circumstances.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
The Nations League group stage continues in the November international window. Spain have already secured their quarter-final place, while the remaining fixtures will determine the final group positions and provide another opportunity to assess the squad before the knockout phase.