Spain will close the international window in Split on Tuesday, 6 October, with Croatia needing a result to keep their Nations League Final Four hopes alive. Spain arrive after another assured Group C win, beating the Czech Republic 3-1 in Oviedo.
Lamine Yamal, Rodrigo Hernández and Mikel Merino scored as Spain extended their commanding run through the section. The Czech side caused greater problems after the interval, but Spain’s finishing again proved decisive.
Quick facts
- Match: Croatia v Spain
- Competition: UEFA Nations League, Group C
- Date: Tuesday, 6 October
- Venue: Split, Croatia
- Kick-off: 20:45
- Previous meeting this window: Spain won 4-1 against Croatia five days earlier
- Broadcast in Spain: La 1 and RTVE Play
The trip follows two home fixtures for Spain and brings the final match of this extended international break. Their victory over Croatia in the second round came at the Pizjuán, where Spain ran out comfortable 4-1 winners.
Croatia’s position has become even more urgent after a punishing home defeat to England. Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and their team-mates helped England to a 7-0 victory, leaving Croatia with no room for another setback if they are to remain in contention for the tournament’s final stage.
Spain have history in Split, although their only previous visit was far removed from the current stakes. A friendly played there in February 2000 ended without a goal.
More recent meetings have favoured Spain. They opened Euro 2024 with a 3-0 win over Croatia and went on to lift the trophy, adding another layer to a fixture that has repeatedly carried major tournament weight.
