Spain extends its unbeaten streak against a tenacious Croatia

The reigning World Cup champion remains unbeatable. Spain defeated Croatia 2-1 in a match in which the national team coached by Luis de la Fuente had to come from behind after trailing for the first hour of the game.

Two goals by midfielder Mikel Merino, who plays for Arsenal FC, in the 61st and 89th minutes sealed the Spanish victory. Earlier, the Croatians had taken the lead with a goal by Ivan Perisic in the 17th minute.

"We're not content, as I've said before, with just the world championship title. We want to keep improving, there's room for improvement, plenty of room for improvement still," De la Fuente said after the match.

"So that's still our goal: to keep growing as a team and achieve all the goals that lie ahead of us," added the head coach.

Croatia was reduced to 10 men after Perisic was sent off in the 79th minute.

With this victory, Spain ends this match window undefeated. The 2026 World Cup champion has not lost since June 8, 2025.