Merino double sends Spain into Nations League quarterfinals
Lamine Yamal of Spain runs with the ball during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Croatia and Spain at Stadion Poljud on Oct. 6, 2026, in Split, Croatia. Photo: Reuters
Zagreb, Oct. 7 (SANA) Spain secured a place in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals after substitute Mikel Merino scored twice in the second half to complete a 2-1 comeback win over Croatia on Tuesday.
Ivan Perišić put the hosts ahead in the 18th minute, heading home after Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon had saved from Igor Matanovic.
Merino came on at halftime and leveled the score in the 61st minute after Dani Olmo set him up. The midfielder then completed the comeback in the 89th minute with a fine turn and finish past Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Croatia were reduced to 10 men in the 79th minute when Perišić was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Marc Cucurella.
The victory gave Spain a fourth win from four Group A3 matches and extended their unbeaten run to 42 games. They now lead the group by three points.
Merino said he was pleased to contribute after coming off the bench.
“I’m very happy to be able to help the team, another game in which it was my turn to score from the bench,” he told TVE.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised Merino’s impact, saying: “It’s an honor to coach a player like that.”
Spain will next face the Czech Republic away before hosting England in Madrid.
T.S /M.F