Spain will face Croatia in the UEFA Nations League Group A3 match on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Stadion Poljud in Split, Croatia, at 8:45 PM local time (18:45 GMT). Spain, the FIFA World Cup holders, are looking to secure their place in the quarterfinals after a 10-match winning streak and a perfect record in the tournament. They currently lead the group with nine points from three games. Croatia, on the other hand, is in third place with three points from three matches.
Spain's attack has been strong, with 10 goals scored by seven different players in three games, including Lamine Yamal, who is the joint leading scorer in the tournament with four goals. Croatia's performance has been less impressive, highlighted by their recent heavy defeat.
The UEFA Nations League, established in 2018, aims to provide competitive matches for national teams, reducing the number of friendlies. The league features promotion and relegation across four divisions, with the top two teams from each group in League A advancing to the quarterfinals in March 2027.
In terms of player availability, Croatia will be without Martin Erlic due to injury and Josip Juranovic due to illness. Spain has four players doubtful due to injuries: Ferran Torres, Alejandro Grimaldo, Joan Garcia, and Nico Williams.
Probable lineups for the match include: Croatia: Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Luka Vuskovic, Josko Gvardiol, Ivan Perisic; Luka Modric; Franjo Ivanovic, Petar Sucic, Mateo Kovacic, Martin Baturina; Petar Musa. Spain: David Raya; Ivan Fresneda, Robin Le Normand, Aymeric Laporte, Fran Garcia; Rodri, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena; Roberto Fernandez.