Mikel Merino strikes twice as Spain come from behind to beat Croatia

Spain overturned an early deficit to beat Croatia 2-1 and reach the Nations League quarter-finals, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring both goals in a comeback victory.

Luis de la Fuente’s world champions were aiming for an 11th consecutive win but fell behind in the 17th minute. Ivan Perisic rose to head Croatia in front, responding strongly after their previous Nations League match ended in a heavy 7-0 defeat by England.

Croatia produced a much-improved performance and were applauded by their home supporters at half-time. Spain returned from the interval with greater control, however, and drew level in the 61st minute.

Dani Olmo capitalised on a poor Croatian clearance and played the ball to Merino, who calmly finished to make it 1-1. Spain continued to apply pressure, with Lamine Yamal seeing an effort blocked as the visitors searched for a second goal.

Croatia almost regained the lead when Perisic unleashed a powerful shot that was saved. His match then ended prematurely after he received a second yellow card for a foul on Marc Cucurella.

Spain took advantage of their extra player two minutes before full-time. Martin Zubimendi delivered an excellent cross and Merino met it with a fine finish to complete the turnaround. Merino and Zubimendi are also Arsenal team-mates.

“The players are ambitious,” Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said at the post-match news conference. “They are insatiable; they always want more. They don’t conform with anything.

“This team has shown that, not only today, throughout this whole journey, that they go out to win matches. It’s a wonderful attitude from a group of players who always want to give their best.

“We don’t conform with being world champions, we want to keep improving every day, that’s the aim.”

League B results

Scotland were beaten 2-1 by Slovenia at Hampden Park despite taking the lead.

Ryan Christie put the hosts ahead, but Slovenia turned the match around after half-time. Aljosa Matko equalised before Danijel Sturm completed the visitors’ comeback.

Switzerland recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory over North Macedonia in Lucerne.

Fabian Rieder opened the scoring for Switzerland, with Johan Manzambi and Dan Ndoye adding second-half goals to secure all three points.