Yamal stars as Spain thrash Croatia

What the report says

Lamine Yamal was the standout performer as Spain defeated Croatia 4-1 in Seville in UEFA Nations League Group A3, according to Al Jazeera’s report based on Reuters. The result kept Spain’s perfect start in the group intact and extended their unbeaten run to 40 matches, a new European record cited in the article. Spain were also playing their first home match since winning the World Cup in July, with Rodri presented to the crowd before kickoff.

Spain made an early breakthrough when Yamal scored in the second minute after a move involving Alex Baena and Fermin Lopez. Croatia responded through Dion Beljo’s header in the 28th minute, briefly leveling the contest. Spain quickly regained control, however, as Yamal delivered a cross that Marc Pubill converted with a header before halftime.

The 2026 Nations League match, a rematch of the 2023 final won by Spain on penalties, was effectively settled in the second half. Yamal added his second goal in the 63rd minute after combining with Pedri, and Nico Williams completed the scoring late on. The win underlined Spain’s depth and momentum underlining their status as one of Europe’s leading teams, while Croatia were left with little reward despite an improved spell after falling behind early.