The tournament might not kick-off for the best part of two years, but the extended international break offered some early clues as to how the challengers are shaping up
Croatian midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic shared their frustration after Spain snatched a late 2-1 victory in Split. The duo insisted Croatia showed crucial character following their heavy defeat to England.
Real Madrid legend Luka Modric has opened up about the immense difficulty of competing against Lionel Messi throughout their storied careers in Spain and on the international stage. Following the former Barcelona captain's decision to retire from international duty with Argentina, the current AC Milan midfielder offered a heartfelt tribute to his long-time rival.
Slaven Bilic has voiced his frustration following Croatia's narrow 2-1 Nations League defeat to Spain, hitting out at the antics of Marc Cucurella. Despite an improved performance from the Vatreni, the head coach felt his side were hard done by following a series of controversial refereeing calls in Rijeka.
Mikel Merino was the man of the hour for Spain once again, coming off the bench to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in Split. Despite his match-winning brace, the Arsenal midfielder has opened up about the personal challenges he faces while playing a secondary role for both club and country.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised his side's competitive spirit after watching them fight back to beat Croatia 2-1. The head coach highlighted half-time substitute Mikel Merino as one of the world's best in his position.
Mikel Merino came off the bench to score twice as Spain fought back to defeat Croatia 2-1 in Split. The Arsenal midfielder reacted to his match-winning performance that sent the world champions into the Nations League quarter-finals.
Spain midfielder Pedri has offered an intriguing insight into the elite mentality of teammate Lamine Yamal following La Roja's recent victory. Despite another influential performance on the international stage, the young winger was reportedly far from satisfied with his own display.
Mikel Merino emerged as the unlikely hero with a second-half brace as Spain came from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1 at the Stadion Poljud. The victory secures Luis de la Fuente's side a place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
While England can once again thank Harry Kane, Spain celebrated a late win against Croatia despite going behind. The matchwinner was once again Mikel Merino.
Mikel Merino proved to be the hero once again as Spain fought back from a goal down to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in Split. The Arsenal midfielder struck twice in the second half to ensure Luis de la Fuente's side extended their remarkable unbeaten run and booked their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
Dani Olmo has opened up about the tempting offer he received to switch international allegiances to Croatia during his formative years in Zagreb. The Barcelona playmaker, who is now a cornerstone of the Spanish national team, admitted he was grateful for the interest but could never abandon his lifelong ambition.
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