Reigning world champions, Spain booked their place in the Nations League quarter-finals after coming from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 on Tuesday.
Mikel Merino was the match-winner, scoring twice after coming on at half-time to complete Spain’s comeback and extend their unbeaten run to 42 matches.
Croatia took the lead before the break through Ivan Perisic, who headed home after Spain were caught out during a counter-attack.
The hosts remained dangerous and could have doubled their advantage, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón made several important saves.
Spain struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the opening half despite enjoying plenty of possession.
Their best chance came late in the half when Pedri released Lamine Yamal, but the teenager’s effort went wide of the near post.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente responded by introducing Merino at the start of the second half, and the substitute quickly helped change the game.
The visitors increased the pressure, with Yamal and Dani Olmo becoming increasingly influential.
Olmo provided the assist for Merino’s equaliser around the hour mark, before Croatia were reduced to 10 men when Perisic received a second yellow card.
Spain took advantage of the numerical advantage late on, with Merino firing home from inside the box after receiving a pass from Martín Zubimendi.
The victory kept Spain top of their group and secured their early qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals, while Croatia were left to rue their failure to protect their first-half lead.
