Spain secure comeback win over Croatia in Split as Merino shines
Mikel Merino came off the bench to inspire a 2-1 comeback victory for Spain against Croatia, keeping their perfect record intact.
Spain secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in Split, with substitute Mikel Merino proving to be the match-winner. The game shifted significantly after the break following his introduction.
Merino leveled the score in the 61st minute by converting an assist from Olmo. The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute when he latched onto a pass from Zubimendi, producing a perfect first touch and a clinical finish past Livakovic to complete the turnaround.
Tensions rose late in the match as Ivan Perisic went close to an equalizer before being sent off for a second booking, a decision that appeared somewhat harsh. The result maintains Spain’s perfect start to the campaign, now with four wins from four matches and 12 points.