Image Source: BBC
Croatia vs Spain is set for a compelling UEFA Nations League meeting at Stadion Poljud on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 19:45 UK time. The starting lineups have been confirmed, while Spain arrive as Group 3 leaders and Croatia look to recover ground in front of their home supporters.
The match is listed as a League A, Group 3 fixture. Spain sit top of the section with nine points from three matches, while Croatia are third with three points. England occupy second place on six points, meaning the result could have a major influence on the group’s race for the next stage.
Explosive Croatia vs Spain lineups confirmed
Croatia manager Slaven Bilic has selected a 4-2-3-1 formation, with veteran midfielder Luka Modric captaining the side. Dominik Livaković starts in goal, while Josko Gvardiol, Luka Vušković, Josip Šutalo and Josip Stanišić form the defensive line.
Karlo Jakić joins Modric in the holding midfield positions. Ahead of them, Ivan Perišić, Mateo Kovačić and Nikola Vlašić are tasked with creating chances for striker Igor Matanović.
- Croatia goalkeeper: Dominik Livaković
- Croatia defence: Josko Gvardiol, Luka Vušković, Josip Šutalo, Josip Stanišić
- Croatia midfield: Karlo Jakić, Luka Modric, Ivan Perišić, Mateo Kovačić, Nikola Vlašić
- Croatia striker: Igor Matanović
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has also opted for a 4-2-3-1 system. Unai Simón starts between the posts, protected by Marc Cucurella, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí and Marc Pubill.
Rodri captains Spain from defensive midfield alongside Pedri. Álex Baena, Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal operate behind Mikel Oyarzabal, giving Spain a technically gifted attacking unit with plenty of pace and creativity.
- Spain goalkeeper: Unai Simón
- Spain defence: Marc Cucurella, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Pubill
- Spain midfield: Pedri, Rodri, Álex Baena, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal
- Spain striker: Mikel Oyarzabal
Spain hold the advantage in Group 3
Spain’s perfect start has placed them in a powerful position. They have won all three of their group games, scoring 10 goals and conceding four. Their passing accuracy stands at 91% in the season statistics supplied ahead of the match, underlining the control and technical quality expected from the visitors.
Croatia, meanwhile, have scored three goals and conceded 12 across their three matches. Their recent form includes defeats by England and Spain, although their experienced midfield gives them a route back into the contest. Modric and Kovačić will be central to Croatia’s attempts to slow Spain’s possession game and create opportunities on the counterattack.
The previous listed meeting between the sides ended in a 4-1 victory for Spain on 29 September 2026. Spain also won their earlier UEFA European Championship meeting 3-0 in June 2024. Croatia’s most recent draw against Spain came in the Nations League in June 2023, when the match finished 0-0.
Early live update from Stadion Poljud
The live text update shows the match at the opening stage, with the lineups announced and players warming up. Match statistics remain at zero for possession, shots, corners and fouls, so no meaningful performance comparison is available yet.
Referee Erik Lambrechts is in charge, with Bram van Driessche appointed as the video assistant referee. The officials will be closely watched in a fixture expected to feature intense midfield battles and fast attacking transitions.
For Croatia, victory would provide a much-needed lift and keep their qualification hopes alive. Spain, on the other hand, can strengthen their commanding position by extending their winning run. With England also competing in the same group, every point carries significant consequences.
What to watch in Croatia vs Spain
- Modric against Spain’s midfield: Croatia’s captain will be vital in controlling tempo and finding Perišić or Kovačić in advanced positions.
- Yamal’s threat: Lamine Yamal offers Spain a direct attacking option capable of stretching Croatia’s defence.
- Rodri’s leadership: Spain’s captain will look to protect the back four while directing possession from deep.
- Croatia’s response: The home side must improve defensively after conceding heavily in recent matches.
FAQs about Croatia vs Spain
When is Croatia vs Spain?
The UEFA Nations League match takes place on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, with kick-off at 19:45 UK time.
Where is Croatia vs Spain being played?
The match is being played at Stadion Poljud in Split, Croatia.
Who captains Croatia?
Luka Modric captains Croatia and starts in central midfield.
Who captains Spain?
Rodri wears the captain’s armband for Spain and starts alongside Pedri in midfield.
What was the previous listed result?
Spain won the previous listed meeting 4-1 on 29 September 2026.
