MADRID, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Spain extended its unbeaten run to 40 matches and took a major step toward the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals with a convincing 4-1 win over Croatia in Seville on Tuesday.
Captain Rodri presented the World Cup trophy the team won this summer to the fans at the Sanchez Pizjuan before kickoff, as coach Luis de la Fuente made five changes from the side that beat England on Saturday.
Lamine Yamal needed just a minute to open the scoring after Fermin Lopez's dummy from Alex Baena's pass created the chance, allowing Yamal to finish across the goalkeeper. Spain dominated the early stages, with Pau Cubarsi coming close to making it 2-0.
Croatia leveled in the 28th minute when Dion Beljo rose to head in Ivan Perisic's corner, but Marc Pubill restored Spain's lead just three minutes later, nodding in an excellent cross from Yamal for his first international goal. Spain nearly extended its advantage before halftime when Lopez's shot struck the post in stoppage time.
A leading candidate for the Ballon d'Or, Yamal strengthened his case in the 62nd minute. Pedri slipped a pass into the box for Yamal, who finished at the near post to put Spain firmly in control.
Luka Modric received a warm reception when he came on with 10 minutes remaining, but Spain remained dominant, with Victor Munoz and Nico Williams causing problems on the wings. Williams sealed the win in the closing moments, cutting inside and scoring with a powerful left-footed finish to make it 4-1.
The result leaves Spain unbeaten and in a strong position to secure progression from the group. ■
