Spain seeks perfect record against struggling Croatia in Nations League

Spain travels to Split on October 6, 2026, to face Croatia in a UEFA Nations League Group A3 match at Stadion Poljud, with kickoff at 8:45pm local time (18:45 GMT). The FIFA World Cup holders arrive undefeated across all competitions, extending a 10-match winning streak into the Nations League with a perfect 3–0 record in group play. Spain has scored 10 goals across three matches, with 19-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal leading the attack with four goals in three games.

Croatia enters the fixture in sharp contrast to Spain's form. Manager Slaven Bilić's tenure has been marked by recent defensive collapses, including a historic 7–0 loss to England and a 4–1 defeat to Spain in the reverse fixture. Croatia sits third in the group with three points from three matches, having conceded 12 goals across their three Nations League games. Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić, now 41, remains a key figure for the hosts, though centre-back Martin Erlic is sidelined with injury.

Spain's attack has proven formidable this window. Yamal scored twice in the reverse fixture against Croatia and has scored or assisted in each of his last nine matches, accumulating 19 goal contributions in that span. Midfielder Álex Baena has contributed two assists and one goal. Spain has not lost a match in 90 minutes since March 2024, spanning 41 matches. Croatia's form guide shows one win, three losses, and one draw in their last five games, while Spain has won all five recent matches.

The fixture represents a rematch of the 2022–23 UEFA Nations League final, which Spain won on penalties after 120 minutes of goalless play. Sports analysts predict Spain will secure victory given the disparity in current form. Spain's likely starting lineup includes goalkeeper David Raya, with Yamal expected to lead the attack alongside Dani Olmo and Baena. Croatia may deploy a more defensive approach, with Modrić anchoring midfield.

A victory would secure Spain's place in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, scheduled for March 2027. The match will be broadcast live across numerous territories, including iQiyi in China, Sony LIV in India, DAZN in Germany and other European territories, beIN Sports across the Middle East and North Africa, and local broadcasters such as Nova TV in Croatia and TVE La 1 in Spain.