Mikel Merino came off the bench to score twice as Spain recovered from a goal down to beat Croatia and secure a place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
The Arsenal midfielder made the difference after coming on for a Spain side that had struggled to break down Croatia in the opening half. Spain entered the match looking for an 11th consecutive victory under coach Luis de la Fuente, but Croatia took the lead in the 17th minute.
Ivan Perisic rose to head the ball into the net, giving Croatia a reward for their improved performance following their heavy 7-0 defeat by England in their previous Nations League outing. Croatia’s first-half display was so impressive that their players received a standing ovation from the home supporters at the interval.
Spain responded strongly after the break and levelled in the 61st minute. Dani Olmo capitalised on a poor Croatian clearance before finding Merino, who finished calmly to bring the defending champions level. Spain then increased the pressure as they searched for a winning goal. Lamine Yamal came close, but his goalbound effort was blocked.
Croatia’s task became more difficult when Perisic was sent off shortly afterwards. The 37-year-old had just seen a powerful effort saved before receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Marc Cucurella. Spain eventually took advantage of the numerical advantage two minutes from full time.
Merino connected with a precise pass from Arsenal team-mate Martin Zubimendi before producing a composed finish to complete his brace and give Spain a 2-1 victory. The result leaves Spain top of League A Group 3, three points ahead of England, who comfortably defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 on Tuesday.
For Merino, the performance provided a decisive contribution off the bench as Spain continued their pursuit of another Nations League title.
