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Lamine Yamal Shines with Perfect 10/10 as Spain Cruises Past Croatia 4-1 in Nations League

Lamine Yamal put in an outstanding performance, scoring twice and assisting once as Spain overwhelmed Croatia 4-1 at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan during the UEFA Nations League.

Spain took an early lead within two minutes when Yamal finished off a precise cross from Álex Baena. Croatia fought back to equalize through Dion Drena Beljo's header in the 28th minute after a good move involving Ivan Perisic. Spain quickly regained control as Marc Pubill headed home from a Yamal corner just three minutes later, making it 2-1 at halftime.

The second half saw Spain dominate possession at 63.7%, suffocating Croatia's midfield. Yamal scored his second goal shortly after the hour mark, sealing the match, and substitute Nico Williams added a late goal to confirm Spain's top position in Group 3.

Player Ratings: Goalkeeper & Defense

  • Unai Simon - 6/10: The captain faced little trouble with only two shots on target against him but could do nothing about Beljo's goal. He communicated well with the young center-backs to prevent further damage.
  • Marc Pubill - 8/10: Impressive going forward and solid defensively. His late run and header gave Spain their second goal, stretching Croatia’s defense.
  • Pau Cubarsi - 7/10: Calm and intelligent defending, managing Beljo effectively and helping maintain Spain’s tempo with accurate passing.
  • Dean Huijsen - 7/10: Reliable and commanding in the air, limiting Croatia’s chances despite one defensive lapse.
  • Marc Cucurella - 7/10: Energetic runs up the flank supporting attacks while balancing defensive responsibilities well.

Midfield Performances

  • Martin Zubimendi - 7/10: The team’s workhorse, recycling possession and breaking up play before being replaced by Rodri.
  • Fabian Ruiz - 7/10: Mixed physicality and technique, helping Spain control the ball until substituted for Pedri.
  • Álex Baena - 8/10: Creative throughout, providing the assist for the opening goal and troubling Croatia’s defense, though booked before leaving the pitch.
  • Fermin Lopez - 7/10: Hard-working and disciplined, almost scored with a powerful shot that hit the post, helping sustain Spain’s pressing game.

Attack Highlights

  • Lamine Yamal - 10/10: Flawless from start to finish. Opened the scoring, assisted Pubill’s goal, and netted again to kill the contest. He constantly troubled Croatia’s left side.
  • Mikel Oyarzabal - 6/10: Led the attack selflessly, creating space for teammates though his own goal was ruled offside.

Substitutes and Manager Impact

  • Pedri - 8/10: Came on to boost creativity and assisted Yamal’s second goal with a clever pass.
  • Mikel Merino - 7/10: Added midfield stability and set up Nico Williams’ late goal.
  • Nico Williams - 8/10: Impressive impact off the bench, scoring a composed goal late on.
  • Victor Muñoz - 6/10: Provided fresh energy on the wing and nearly scored with a header.
  • Rodri - 6/10: Brought on late to steady the midfield and took over as captain.
  • Luis de la Fuente - 9/10: His tactics and trust in youth paid off, with perfect substitutions leading to assists and goals.

Upcoming UEFA Nations League Fixtures

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

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