2026-2027 Nations League: Croatia vs. Spain, Probable Lineups

Croatia and Spain face off at 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday in a match counting toward Matchday 4 of Group 3 in League A of the 2026–2027 Nations League. Modric and his teammates are still reeling from their unexpected and humiliating 7-0 loss to England and are looking to redeem themselves in front of their home fans; the Red Fury, on the other hand, are seeking their fourth win in four matches, which would all but secure their top spot in the group.

Bilic’s team is thus called upon to show some pride: the front three is expected to consist of Vlasic, Budimir, and Pasalic, with the midfield trio of Kovacic, Modric, and Sucic, while Stanisic and Perisic will play on the wings.

The world champions, unbeaten for over two years, are expected to field Oyarzabal as center forward, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams on either side of him. Luis De La Fuente is expected to rely on Fermin Lopez, Zubimenti, and Pedri in midfield, while Pubill and Cucurella will play as fullbacks.

Croatia vs. Spain: Probable Lineups
CROATIA (4-3-3): Livaković; Stanišić, Vušković, Gvardiol, Perišić; Kovačić, Modric, Sučić; Vlašić, Budimir, Pašalić.
SPAIN (4-3-3): Unai Simón; Pubill, Cubarsí, Huijsen, Cucurella; Zubimendi, Pedri, Fermín López; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Nico Williams.

Spain’s head coach De La Fuente remains highly critical of the new international break format: “I like to compete, but my opinion remains the same as before. Four games in ten days are too many. I preferred the other format, but we’re not complainers—we’ll adapt. Yamal? He’s in fantastic form; he’s a role model and a true fighter. And he’s in excellent shape to play a game.”