Spain’s long unbeaten run was in real danger in Split until the man from the bench decided otherwise. On Tuesday, October 6, Mikel Merino scored twice after half-time as the world champions came from a goal down to beat Croatia 2-1 at the Poljud. The win booked a Nations League quarter-final place with two group games to spare.
Perišić Gives Croatia the Lead
Croatia, back in front of their own fans after a one-match UEFA ban, struck first. In the 17th minute Igor Matanović’s shot was parried by Unai Simón, and veteran Ivan Perišić reacted fastest to nod in the rebound. Spain held 72 percent of the ball, but Croatia defended with 21 clearances and edged the expected-goals count 1.17 to 1.08 over the match.
De la Fuente’s Half-Time Gamble
Spain struggled to create in the first half, with an expected-goals total of just 0.57 from five attempts. At the break, Luis de la Fuente took off Álex Baena and sent on Merino, bringing more physical presence and late runs into the box.
Merino Strikes Twice
The change worked. In the 61st minute Dani Olmo worked his way past a defender and fed Merino, who finished low into the bottom corner from about ten metres. Then Perišić, already booked, brought down Marc Cucurella in the 79th minute and received a second yellow card, upheld by VAR. Croatia were down to ten, and Spain pounced.
With two minutes left, Martín Zubimendi’s ball found Merino, who took it down and hammered a left-footed shot into the top corner for the winner.
Even Lamine Yamal had a quiet night and was replaced late on by Víctor Muñoz.
How Long Is Spain’s Unbeaten Run?
Here is the number everyone is arguing about. Most outlets, including beIN Sports, VAVEL and AllFootball, put the run at 42 games after this win, with 32 wins and 10 draws in all competitions. ESPN counts 43, with 36 wins. Reports differ, so the safest wording is “more than 40 games.” The streak also includes the World Cup final in July, which Spain won against Argentina.
Merino, Spain’s Secret Weapon
Merino, an Arsenal midfielder, has now scored six goals in 16 matches as a substitute for Spain since the start of 2025. The win leaves Spain with four wins from four and 12 points in Group A3.
What Next?
Spain return in November with their quarter-final place secured, giving De la Fuente the chance to refine the squad before next year’s knockout rounds. Croatia are left on three points after a bruising week, following their 7-0 defeat by England.
You can also check out our YouTube for more sport news @ShapHub
