Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino came off the bench to score twice as world champions Spain recovered from a goal down to defeat Croatia and book their place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Luis de la Fuente’s side were aiming for an 11th straight victory but found themselves behind in the 17th minute when Ivan Perisic rose to head Croatia into the lead.
Despite suffering a heavy 7-0 defeat to England in their previous Nations League outing, Croatia produced a much-improved performance and received a standing ovation from their supporters at half-time.
Spain, however, stepped up their game after the break and levelled in the 61st minute. Dani Olmo capitalised on a poor clearance before setting up Merino, who calmly finished the chance.
Lamine Yamal later saw his effort blocked as Spain searched for a winner, while Croatia were reduced to 10 men when Perisic was sent off shortly after having an effort saved. The 37-year-old received a second yellow card for a foul on Marc Cucurella.
The dismissal proved costly as Spain completed the comeback two minutes from full-time. Merino connected with a superb pass from Arsenal team-mate Martin Zubimendi before firing a brilliant finish into the net.
The victory keeps Spain top of League A Group 3, three points ahead of England, who defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 on Tuesday.
