Securing their first international title since their 2012 Euro win, Spain triumphed over Croatia in a penalty shootout during the Nations League final. This comes after their victorious World Cup campaign in 2010 and a trio of European Championship crowns.
Croatia’s hope for their maiden international trophy was dashed when they fell to Spain in a penalty kick decider.
Spain celebrated their victory after a successful chip shot from Dani Carvajal, securing a 5-4 shootout win after goalkeeper Unai Simon saved Bruno Petkovic’s attempt. The match in Rotterdam was a draw even after extra time.
Spain’s winning midfielder, Rodri, reflected on the hard-fought game, acknowledging the promising future of a young Spanish squad including talents such as Gavi, Ansu Fati, and Yeremy Pino. He also emphasized that despite the need for improvements, victories should always be cherished and celebrated.
Joining France, Spain becomes the second country to achieve victory in the World Cup, European Championship, and Nations League. They could have clinched the shootout earlier, but Aymeric Laporte’s strike hit the crossbar after Simon’s save from Lovro Majer. Simon, however, blocked Petkovic’s following attempt, giving Carvajal the opportunity to become the game’s hero.
Referring to Spain’s early exit from the 2022 World Cup, Carvajal highlighted that the Nations League final was a golden opportunity for redemption and they seized it confidently.
Croatia, with their impressive performance in the 2018 World Cup final and third-place finish in Qatar 2022, aimed to go further by earning their first international title. The Rotterdam stadium was filled with Croatian supporters, eagerly cheering on their team.
Veteran Croatian player Luka Modric hoped to crown his outstanding career with his first international trophy. Croatia’s early hiccups in the game could have been due to this immense pressure. Spain’s high press strategy almost cost Croatia, but they managed to find their rhythm and challenge Spain’s defense. However, Spain had superior opportunities with attempts from Marco Asensio, Fabian Ruiz, and Ansu Fati.
The game continued into extra time and penalties, where Spain emerged victorious and Croatia faced heartbreak. Speculations surround Modric’s international career, with the former Ballon d’Or winner expected to make an announcement regarding his future this week.
Despite the defeat, he may continue his career to compete in the upcoming European Championship in Germany.
Match Statistics
| Croatia | Spain | |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 45% | 55% |
| Shots | 12 | 21 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 2 |
| Corners | 4 | 8 |
| Fouls | 11 | 18 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Spain’s Nations League Victory
Who won the Nations League final between Spain and Croatia?
Spain won the Nations League final against Croatia in a penalty shootout, finishing 5-4.
Which player scored the winning goal for Spain in the penalty shootout?
Dani Carvajal scored the winning goal for Spain in the penalty shootout.
When was the last time Spain won an international title before the Nations League?
Before the Nations League victory, Spain’s last international title was in the 2012 European Championship.
What achievement did Spain unlock with the Nations League win?
Spain became the second nation, after France, to win the World Cup, European Championship, and Nations League.
Was this possibly the last international match for Croatia’s Luka Modric?
Luka Modric, the veteran Croatian player, is expected to announce his decision about his international future soon. His participation in the next summer’s European Championship is still uncertain.
More about Spain’s Nations League Victory
- Spain’s previous international titles
- Nations League Tournament Overview
- Profile of Luka Modric
- Review of the 2022 World Cup
- Dani Carvajal’s career statistics
5 comments
Wow, what a game! Didn’t think Spain had it in them, but they pulled through. Those young guys like Gavi and Fati are the future, no doubt!
Penalties are so nerve wracking! I can’t even imagine the pressure. Fair play to both teams.
carvajal is the man! Cool as ice with that panenka. Proud of La Roja tonight!!
First big win for Spain in a long time, hopefully the start of another golden era! Also, props to Croatia, they put up a good fight.
tough loss for us Croatians… still proud of our boys though. Modric is a legend no matter what!!