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Yamal stars as Spain thrash Croatia

Al Jazeera · 2026-09-29

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Spain defeated Croatia 4-1 in a UEFA Nations League match, with Lamine Yamal scoring twice, extending Spain's unbeaten run to 40 matches. • Why it matters: This victory reinforces Spain's dominance in European football and highlights the emergence of young talent like Yamal, as they maintain a perfect record in the tournament. • What to watch next: Fans will be keen to see if Spain can continue their unbeaten streak and how they perform in upcoming matches in the UEFA Nations League.

**Yamal Stars as Spain Thrash Croatia in UEFA Nations League**

In a commanding display, Spain secured a 4-1 victory over Croatia in their UEFA Nations League Group A3 match on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The match, held in Seville, marked Spain's first home game since their World Cup triumph in July and extended their remarkable unbeaten streak to 40 matches, a record in European football.

The evening began with a celebratory atmosphere, as Spanish midfielder Rodri paraded the World Cup trophy on the pitch before kick-off. The excitement was palpable, and Spain wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Just two minutes into the match, Lamine Yamal opened the scoring. The 18-year-old forward received a well-placed ball from Alex Baena, dummied by Fermin Lopez, and curled a precise low shot into the far corner of the net.

Spain continued to press, with Baena coming close to doubling the lead shortly thereafter. His powerful effort was parried away by Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, keeping the visitors in the contest. However, Croatia found their footing and equalized in the 28th minute through Dion Beljo, who headed the ball into the net, momentarily silencing the home crowd.

The Spanish team quickly responded, regaining the lead just three minutes later. Lamine Yamal showcased his playmaking ability by delivering a cross into the six-yard box, where Marc Pubill met it with a powerful header, sending the ball past Livakovic to make it 2-1.

As the match progressed into the second half, Spain continued to dominate possession and create opportunities. Lamine Yamal, who had already made a significant impact, struck again in the 63rd minute. After receiving a pass from Pedri inside the box, he expertly maneuvered into a tight angle and drilled a shot into the net, marking his second goal of the match and solidifying Spain's advantage at 3-1.

The final goal of the match came from substitute Nico Williams in the 89th minute. Williams, who had been brought on to add fresh energy to the attack, found the back of the net, sealing the 4-1 victory for La Roja.

This win not only reinforces Spain's strong start in the UEFA Nations League but also serves as a reminder of their attacking prowess, highlighted by the performance of young star Lamine Yamal. The match was a repeat of the 2023 Nations League final, where Spain triumphed over Croatia in a penalty shootout, and this latest encounter further establishes Spain's dominance in European football.

With this victory, Spain sits atop Group A3, having maintained their perfect record in the tournament so far. Meanwhile, England's 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in Prague allowed them to leapfrog into second place in the group standings.

As Spain continues their campaign in the UEFA Nations League, fans will be eager to see if they can maintain their unbeaten streak and build on their recent successes on the international stage.

Source: Al Jazeera
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