Merino's late brace gives Spain comeback win in Croatia
Spain came from behind to beat Croatia 2-1 in Split in UEFA Nations League A. Ivan Perisic put Croatia ahead in the 18th minute, but Mikel Merino equalized in the 61st and scored the winner in the 89th. Spain had 54% possession and 15 total shots.
Spain’s 2-1 win in Split came in UEFA Nations League A Round 4 on 6 October 2026. Croatia led through Ivan Perisic’s 18th-minute goal, but Mikel Merino replied in the 61st and struck again in the 89th. Spain held 54% possession and recorded 15 shots, six on target; Croatia had 11 shots, four on target. Both teams received two yellow cards, and Croatia committed 12 fouls to Spain’s 10.
The result adds to Spain’s recent run, which the source material notes includes a world-record 42-match unbeaten sequence since 2024. It also follows their 3-1 Nations League win over Czechia. Other listed coverage includes the Netherlands’ 2-1 home defeat of Serbia and Croatia-France lineup speculation.
This late comeback may lift Spanish fans’ mood and increase attention on Merino, while Croatian supporters could feel a frustrating loss. Media narratives around Spain’s unbeaten run may strengthen, possibly affecting player reputations, ticket interest, and youth engagement with international soccer. A single Nations League result is unlikely to reshape society, but it could influence public conversation and expectations before future tournaments, including World Cup-related fixtures.