Merino's Double Secures Spain's Nations League Win; Kane Sets England Record

Spain preserved its 2½-year unbeaten streak with a 2-1 comeback victory over Croatia in UEFA Nations League play on Tuesday in Split. Substitute Mikel Merino, Arsenal's midfielder, scored twice in the second half to complete the turnaround after Croatia took an early lead through Ivan Perišić in the 17th minute. Merino equalized in the 61st minute after entering at halftime, then sealed the win with an 88th-minute strike. This marked Spain's first deficit since June 2024.

The result qualified Spain for the Nations League quarter-finals and extended their unbeaten run. Spain and Portugal were the only teams to win all their group matches during the two-week international break. Spain has not yet secured first place in the group; that will be decided in the next fixture against England.

In parallel Nations League action, England's Harry Kane scored twice in a 3-0 victory over Czechia. Kane's two goals took him to 91 international goals, breaking England's outright goal-scoring record. The double came on his 125th appearance for England, tying his country's all-time caps record. Kane, England's captain, marked another milestone in his record-setting international career.