Spain and Croatia name experienced line-ups for Nations League clash

Spain and Croatia will meet on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, in the second round of the Nations League, with both sides taking three points into the fixture after winning their opening matches.

Spain

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is expected to retain a balanced side for the meeting, despite being without defender Eric Garcia.

Unai Simon is set to continue in goal, with his experience and reliability keeping him ahead of the alternatives. Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi are likely to form the centre-back partnership, offering composure in possession and defensive stability.

Marc Cucurella and Marc Pubill are expected to complete the back four. Rodri and Fabian Ruiz should operate in the deeper midfield positions, while Dani Olmo is set to play further forward.

On the wings, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal provide pace and direct running. Ferran Torres is expected to lead the attack, having been preferred for his movement and finishing ability.

Spain probable XI

Goalkeeper: Unai Simon

Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Pubill

Defensive midfielders: Fabian Ruiz, Rodri

Attacking midfielders: Nico Williams, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal

Forward: Ferran Torres

Croatia

Slaven Bilic is expected to select an experienced Croatia team against Spain, with Dominik Livakovic remaining the undisputed choice in goal.

Josko Gvardiol and Luka Vuskovic are set to partner each other at centre-back, while Ivan Perisic and Josip Stanisic are likely to feature in the wider defensive positions.

Croatia’s midfield is expected to be built around Mateo Kovacic and Luka Modric. Their control and experience will be complemented by an attacking trio of Mario Pasalic, Petar Sucic and Luka Sucic.

Mario Pasalic is likely to be selected for his ability to influence the game in several positions, while Igor Matanovic should lead the line. His movement is expected to be central to Croatia’s attacking approach.

Croatia probable XI

Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic

Defenders: Ivan Perisic, Josko Gvardiol, Luka Vuskovic, Josip Stanisic

Defensive midfielders: Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric

Attacking midfielders: Mario Pasalic, Petar Sucic, Luka Sucic

Forward: Igor Matanovic

The Nations League second-round match is scheduled for Tuesday, 29 September 2026. The odds listed by 1xbet make Spain strong favourites at 1.15, while a draw is priced at 6.40 and a Croatia victory at 12.00.