Spain welcomes Croatia to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán for Matchday 2 of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, with star winger Lamine Yamal slated to retain his starting role on the right flank. Both nations arrive boasting perfect records, eager to secure another crucial three points in their campaign.
La Roja kicked off their post-World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, defeating England 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at Wembley. Lamine Yamal made his mark early, scoring within the opening two minutes, but England responded through goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane. Spain ultimately secured the victory thanks to a late strike from substitute Mikel Oyarzabal, surviving a missed penalty from Kane to extend their impressive unbeaten run to 39 matches.
Meanwhile, Croatia travels with momentum after securing a 2-1 victory over Czechia in Prague. Goals from Luka Modrić and Marco Pašalić guided the visitors to victory in a fixture that also marked the highly anticipated return of Slaven Bilić to the Croatian bench after 14 years away from the helm.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is expected to implement only minor adjustments to his starting lineup, keeping the attacking unit that triumphed against England largely intact. On the other side, Croatia is set to field a seasoned squad as Slaven Bilić seeks to build early momentum in his second tenure managing the national team.
Confirmed lineup for Spain
De la Fuente has introduced several strategic alterations from the squad that faced England, with Dean Huijsen stepping in at center-back in place of Aymeric Laporte. Additionally, a refreshed midfield trio consisting of Martín Zubimendi, Fabián Ruiz, and Fermín López takes the field, replacing Rodri, Pedri, and Dani Olmo.
The confirmed Spanish starting lineup is as follows: Unai Simon; Marc Pubill, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Martin Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.
Confirmed lineup for Croatia
Slaven Bilić has made a bold tactical decision, opting to start Luka Modrić on the bench for this crucial fixture. Instead, he pairs Mateo Kovačić with Luka Sucić in central midfield, while Ivan Perišić and Mario Pašalić operate further forward to support lone striker Dion Drena Beljo.
The confirmed Croatian starting lineup is as follows: Dominik Livakovic; Ivan Smolčić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić, Josko Gvardiol; Josip Mišić, Mateo Kovačić; Luka Sucic, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic; Dion Drena Beljo.
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