Yamal stars as Spain thrash Croatia

Lamine Yamal scored twice as Spain continued their remarkable unbeaten run with a 4-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League.

The result extended Spain's European-record unbeaten streak to 40 matches and maintained their perfect start to Group A3.

Spain took control early in Seville, with Yamal opening the scoring in only the second minute. Alex Baena delivered the ball into the penalty area, where Fermin Lopez allowed it to run through before Yamal curled a first-time shot into the far corner.

Baena came close to doubling the advantage soon afterwards, but Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic produced a strong save to keep his side in the contest.

Croatia responded in the 28th minute when Dion Beljo headed the ball beyond Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon to level the match.

The visitors' hopes of holding Spain were short-lived, however, as the hosts regained the lead less than three minutes later.

Yamal created the opening with a cross from the right, sending the ball into the six-yard box where Marc Pubill rose to head Spain back in front.

Spain continued to press after the interval and increased their advantage in the 63rd minute.

Pedri found Yamal inside the penalty area and the young forward produced a composed finish from a tight angle to score his second goal of the night.

Substitute Nico Williams completed the scoring in the 89th minute, putting the result beyond doubt as Spain secured another emphatic victory.

The match was a repeat of the 2023 Nations League final, when Spain defeated Croatia on penalties to claim the title.

Spain entered the match with considerable confidence after recording a 3-2 victory over England at Wembley on Saturday.

The occasion also marked Spain's first home match since their World Cup triumph in July, with captain Rodri parading the trophy before kick-off.

The result leaves Spain firmly in control of Group A3, while Croatia's defeat allows England to move into second place after a 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic in Prague.

For Spain, the latest win provided another demonstration of their attacking strength while extending a remarkable unbeaten sequence on the international stage.