Croatia beaten by Spain in Nations League defeat

Croatia suffered a 1-2 defeat to Spain in their UEFA Nations League match on Tuesday. It marks a third consecutive loss for the national team, following heavy defeats to England and Spain in recent days.

Ivan Perišić put Croatia ahead in the 17th minute, but Spain turned the game around with goals from Mikel Merino in the 61st and 88th minutes. Perišić received a second yellow card in the 79th minute and was sent off, leaving his side to finish the match with ten men.

Key moments

The match started promisingly for Croatia. Following a good move, Perišić beat Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón with a precise strike from outside the box. Spain responded by increasing the pressure and dominating possession, which eventually paid off. Merino's first goal was assisted by Dani Olmo, and his second by Martín Zubimendi.

Manager Slaven Bilić, who was booked for dissent in the 14th minute, introduced Dion Drena Beljo and Petar Sučić in the second half, but the changes did not bring a turnaround. Croatia had five shots on target, the same as Spain, but possession was dramatically lopsided at just 28 percent for the hosts.

This defeat continues a poor run of form. In their last five official matches, Croatia have recorded four losses and one win. The next challenge is an away fixture against group leaders England on November 12th. Ahead of that match, the team will need to address defensive and disciplinary issues.

Following this loss, analysing this season's squad and player form is key, which is available in our squad list.