Spain reach Nations League quarter-finals after Merino double sinks Croatia

Spain became the second team to qualify for the Nations League quarter-finals after recovering from behind to beat Croatia 2-1 at Poljud.

The hosts took the lead in the 17th minute when Ivan Perisic found the net, giving Croatia the advantage at half-time in the fourth round of the competition.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente introduced Mikel Merino as a substitute, and the midfielder changed the course of the match with two goals after the break. He levelled in the 61st minute before completing Spain’s comeback with the winning goal in the 89th minute.

Croatia were reduced to 10 players in the 80th minute when Perisic was shown a second yellow card and sent off following a challenge on Marc Cucurella.

The victory means Spain have secured their place in the quarter-finals with two matches still remaining in the league phase. They lead Group A4 with a maximum 12 points from four games.

Croatia remain third in the group on three points and are now close to an early exit from the tournament.

Spain are the second side to qualify for the last eight, following Portugal, who top Group A1 with a perfect 12-point record.

Spain will complete the league phase next month with matches against Czech Republic and England.