Nations League: Croatia Seek Redemption As Spain Return To Split

Croatia will look to put their humiliating 7-0 defeat by England behind them when they host Spain in a crucial UEFA Nations League encounter at the Poljud Stadium in Split on Tuesday.

The Group A3 cracker comes at a difficult moment for the hosts, who have endured a disappointing campaign and find themselves third in the table with three points from three matches.

Croatia were ruthlessly dismantled by England in their previous outing, suffering a 7-0 defeat that leaves them with little room for further setbacks. Slaven Bilić’s side must now quickly regroup against a Spain team that has already demonstrated its superiority in the group.

La Roja arrive in Split sitting proudly at the summit with nine points from three matches. Spain maintained their perfect record with a 3-1 victory over the Czech Republic and will be aiming to extend their winning run against Croatia.

The visitors also have the psychological advantage of having beaten Croatia 4-1 in the reverse fixture in September, leaving the hosts with the daunting task of stopping a side that has scored freely while remaining unbeaten.

For Croatia, Tuesday’s encounter represents an opportunity to restore confidence and keep their Nations League campaign alive. Another defeat would further increase the pressure on Bilić and his players, while a positive result could provide the response they need after the England humiliation.

Spain, meanwhile, will be focused on maintaining their perfect start and strengthening their position at the top of the group. With three wins from three, they have established themselves as the team to beat in the section.

The Poljud crowd is expected to play a key role as Croatia attempt to respond to their heaviest defeat and prevent Spain from completing another double over them.