Croatia 1-2 Spain: Super-sub Mikel Merino strikes twice to seal Nations League quarter-final spot

The clash at Poljud began with an unexpected twist when reigning champions Spain suffered a shock setback from Ivan Perisic's rebound header in the 17th minute. However, the character of a global footballing powerhouse was activated just in time, helping La Roja pull off a spectacular 2-1 comeback victory thanks to a clinical second-half brace from super-sub Mikel Merino.

This result not only extends Spain's proud 42-match unbeaten run but also serves as a resounding statement of their current supremacy. Behind this emotional comeback lay a tactical masterstroke, where manager Luis de la Fuente's strategic brilliance once again shone through with game-changing substitutions.

Ultimate weapon Mikel Merino and De la Fuente's tactical substitution masterclass

In the second half, Luis de la Fuente made a decisive tactical tweak, introducing Mikel Merino for Alex Baena to counter Croatia's physical, high-pressing game. The adjustment paid immediate dividends thanks to the midfielder's superb spatial awareness. In the 61st minute, Merino positioned himself intelligently to meet Dani Olmo's pass, finishing coolly with his left foot to equalise, before sealing the 2-1 victory in the 89th minute with a sublime left-footed volley.

Remarkably, this was Merino's sixth goal in 16 substitute appearances since 2025. This impressive stat not only cements his status as a premier super-sub but also proves his knack for delivering on the big stage, following his stellar moments at EURO 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.

True champions: Spain's historic 42-match unbeaten run

Despite playing away in the "cauldron" of Poljud without key figures like Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Ferran Torres, Spain still dominated proceedings with a staggering 72% possession. However, the champions' mettle was truly tested when they fell behind in the 17th minute to a sharp counter-attack finished by Ivan Perisic. This marked the first time La Roja had trailed in a competitive fixture since June 2024.

Rather than panicking, the way they overcame adversity demonstrated the elite pressure-handling capabilities of a champion side. This spirited comeback victory not only extends Spain's historic 42-match unbeaten streak but also secures their early passage to the Nations League quarter-finals with a perfect 12 points from four matches, cementing the reigning champions' absolute dominance.

Editorial verdict

This gritty victory over Croatia once again underlines Spain's devastating strength and remarkable squad depth. With several key players sidelined, the brilliance of strategic squad options like Mikel Merino provides the perfect solution to Luis de la Fuente's selection dilemmas, turning tricky situations into match-winning tactical masterstrokes. This proves that La Roja do not just possess a world-class starting XI, but also hold lethal secret weapons up their sleeve to maintain their footballing hegemony.

Armed with unwavering resilience and a historic 42-match unbeaten run, the reigning champions are carving out an era of absolute dominance on the continent. In your opinion, is there any European side currently capable of halting Spain's unprecedented unbeaten streak?