Merino brace helps Spain beat Croatia to reach Nations League quarterfinals

Spain advanced to the Nations League quarterfinals with a 2-1 victory over hosts Croatia. Ivan Perisic gave Croatia an early lead in the first half, but Spain's Ayoze Merino responded with two goals after the interval to secure the win.

The Spanish forward's double proved decisive in a contest that saw Spain overturn the deficit to progress in the competition.