Croatia vs Spain Highlights | UEFA Nations League Final
Croatia and Spain clashed for an intense UEFA Nations League Final showdown in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The first half saw both teams evenly matched in terms of possession. Spain managed to unleash six shots, while Croatia fired seven. However, despite three of Croatia’s shots being on target, they could not find the back of the net. As the halftime whistle blew, the score remained 0-0. Croatia started the second half on a strong note, creating an incredibly close scoring opportunity in the 51st minute.
In a thrilling turn of events, Spain made a decisive comeback in regular time by scoring back-to-back goals in the 84th and 85th minutes, taking the lead. As the match progressed into extra time, the tension rose with each passing 15-minute half, and the score remained deadlocked at 0-0. The intensity reached its peak during a nail-biting round of penalty kicks. Eventually, Dani Carvajal stepped up and converted the decisive fifth penalty, securing a 5-4 victory for Spain in the UEFA Nations League Final. With this triumph, Spain claimed the championship title and emerged as the deserving winner.
The final was a thrilling climax to a tournament showcasing some of Europe’s best talents. Both teams had to overcome tough opponents in the semi-finals, with Spain edging out Italy thanks to a late goal by Joselu and Croatia defeating hosts Netherlands 4-2 after extra time in a dramatic match that saw two red cards and a penalty miss. The final was also a historic occasion for both captains, as Luka Modric became Croatia’s most-capped player with 166 appearances, and Sergio Busquets lifted Spain’s first trophy since 2012.
The match was a tactical battle between two teams that like to dominate possession and create chances with quick passing and movement. Spain had more of the ball in the first half, but Croatia defended well and looked dangerous on the counterattack. The half’s best chance fell to Ivan Perisic, who forced a fine save from Unai Simon with a powerful shot. Spain also had some opportunities, but Alvaro Morata and Aymeric Laporte failed to find the target with their headers.
Highlights From the Second Half
The second half started with a bang, as Croatia almost broke the deadlock with a stunning volley by Lovro Majer that hit the crossbar. Spain responded with more intensity and pressure and came close to scoring twice in quick succession. First, Marco Asensio hit the post with a curling shot from the edge of the box, and then Morata missed a golden chance from close range after a brilliant pass by Gavi.
Extra Time Highlights
Extra time was equally tense and tight, with both teams looking tired but determined. Spain had more possession and shots, but Croatia defended bravely and threatened on the break. The best chance of extra time fell to Rodri, who headed over from six yards out after a cross by Dani Carvajal.
Penalties Highlights
The match went to penalties, where both teams showed nerve and composure. After four successful spot-kicks each, Lovro Majer missed for Croatia, giving Spain the advantage. However, Laporte also failed to convert his penalty, keeping Croatia alive. Ivan Perisic scored for Croatia, but so did Marco Asensio for Spain. The pressure was on Luka Modric, who had to score to keep Croatia in the game. He did so with a cool finish, sending Simon the wrong way. The final penalty was taken by Carvajal, who had set up Rodri’s chance in extra time. He made no mistake, blasting the ball into the top corner and sparking wild celebrations among his teammates and fans.
Spain became the second nation after France to have won the World Cup, European Championship and the Nations League. They also ended their trophy drought and proved their critics wrong after a disappointing Euro 2020 campaign. On the other hand, Croatia suffered another heartbreak in a major final after losing to France in the 2018 World Cup. They can still be proud of their performance and spirit throughout the tournament.
