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Lamine Yamal Shines with Perfect Performance as Spain Thrash Croatia 4-1 in Nations League

Lamine Yamal delivered an exceptional performance as Spain secured a 4-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League at Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan. The young winger scored twice and assisted another goal, playing a key role in a commanding team effort.

Spain wasted no time taking the lead, with Yamal converting an assist from Álex Baena just two minutes into the match. Despite this early setback, Croatia equalized in the 28th minute through Dion Drena Beljo’s header, capitalizing on Ivan Perisic’s build-up play.

The hosts responded quickly when Marc Pubill nodded home a corner from Yamal three minutes later to restore Spain’s advantage before halftime. In the second half, Spain controlled the game with 63.7% possession, stifling Croatia’s midfield. Yamal added his second goal just after the hour mark, and substitute Nico Williams sealed the win late on, keeping Spain atop Group 3.

Player Ratings: Goalkeeper & Defence

  • Unai Simon - 6/10: Faced only two shots on target; could do little about Beljo’s goal but maintained good communication with defenders.
  • Marc Pubill - 8/10: Outstanding attacking right-back who stretched Croatia’s defense and scored the second goal. Solid defensively throughout.
  • Pau Cubarsi - 7/10: Calm and composed against physical threats, contributed with progressive passing to keep Spain’s tempo high.
  • Dean Huijsen - 7/10: Strong aerial presence and reliable under pressure, helped limit Croatia’s chances.
  • Marc Cucurella - 7/10: Energetic and balanced between attack and defense, prevented Croatia from exploiting space behind him.

Midfield Performances

  • Martin Zubimendi - 7/10: Key figure in Spain’s midfield, efficiently recycled possession and disrupted Croatia’s play before being substituted.
  • Fabian Ruiz - 7/10: Combined physicality with technical skill, controlled the half-spaces and kept possession until replaced.
  • Álex Baena - 8/10: Creative threat throughout, provided the early assist and constantly troubled Croatia’s defense before receiving a booking.
  • Fermin Lopez - 7/10: Hardworking and disciplined, narrowly missed scoring with a shot that hit the post, contributed to maintaining pressure.

Attack Highlights

  • Lamine Yamal - 10/10: Flawless display, opening the scoring, assisting the second, and netting a crucial third goal. Consistently troubled Croatia’s defense all night.
  • Mikel Oyarzabal - 6/10: Played selflessly leading the line, created space for teammates though offered less direct goal threat.

Substitutes & Management

  • Pedri - 8/10: Boosted creativity upon entering, setting up Yamal’s second goal with ease through midfield.
  • Mikel Merino - 7/10: Added strength to midfield and assisted the late goal by Nico Williams.
  • Nico Williams - 8/10: Impactful substitute, pressured tired Croatian defense and finished off a late goal.
  • Victor Muñoz - 6/10: Came on for Yamal, nearly scored soon after, helped maintain control of the game.
  • Rodri - 6/10: Provided experienced stability in the closing stages while wearing the captain’s armband.
  • Luis de la Fuente - 9/10: His tactical choices paid off, trusting youth and making timely substitutions that led to goals and assists.

Upcoming UEFA Nations League Matches

  • Croatia vs England: 3 October 2026, 19:00
  • Spain vs Czechia: 3 October 2026, 21:45

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