The Croatian national football team produced a much better performance than in its previous matches, but even the tremendous support from the stands at Poljud was not enough to secure a positive result against the reigning world champions. Spain won 2–1, with Mikel Merino scoring both goals for the visitors.
The football evening in Split began in a fantastic atmosphere. More than 32,000 spectators packed Poljud, hoping that Slaven Bilić’s side would show character after disappointing performances in their previous Nations League matches.
From the opening minutes, Croatia showed determination, aggression and a clear desire to compete. Although Spain, as expected, enjoyed more possession, the Vatreni created the more dangerous opportunities and repeatedly threatened goalkeeper Unai Simón.
That approach was rewarded in the 17th minute. After a driving run from Mateo Kovačić and an effort from Igor Matanović, the Spanish goalkeeper parried the ball away, but Ivan Perišić was in the right place. The experienced Croatian international headed the ball into the net, sending the home crowd into celebration.
Croatia could have doubled its lead, but Simón produced several excellent saves to keep his team in the match. One of his most impressive interventions came when he denied Matanović from close range.
Spain Showed Their Quality After the Break
The second half brought a completely different picture. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente introduced Mikel Merino, a move that ultimately proved decisive.
The visitors gradually increased the pressure and found the equaliser in the 61st minute. Following an attacking move inside the Croatian penalty area, Merino took advantage of the opportunity and made it 1–1.
Bilić then tried to refresh his team with substitutions, while Croatia searched for a way to regain the initiative.
Perišić had a huge chance to restore Croatia’s lead late in the game, but Simón once again reacted superbly and prevented another goal.
Perišić’s Red Card Changed the Final Stages
One of the key moments came in the 79th minute, when Ivan Perišić was sent off after receiving his second yellow card. The decision by Belgian referee Erik Lambrechts sparked strong reactions from the Croatian bench and frustration among the supporters.
With Croatia reduced to ten men, Spain increased the pressure and pushed more aggressively for a winning goal.
Just when it seemed that Croatia might hold on for a valuable point, Merino struck again. In the 88th minute, he found space inside the Croatian penalty area and scored his second goal of the night to complete Spain’s comeback and secure the victory.
Despite the defeat, Croatia showed far more energy and organisation than in its previous performances. However, the match once again demonstrated how costly mistakes can be against opposition of the highest international level.
Croatia may have restored some confidence with a much-improved display at Poljud, but the points still went to Spain. Bilić and his players now face the difficult task of turning improved performances into concrete results.
More from the newsroom →