UEFA Nations League 2025: Croatia and Spain Draw, Match Goes to Penalties
Summary
Croatia and Spain faced off in Rotterdam, Netherlands, for the UEFA Nations League Final on Tuesday, June 29, 2021. The match ended in a 0-0 draw after regulation and extra time, and Spain emerged victorious in a thrilling penalty shootout.
Key Stats
- Possession: Spain 51%, Croatia 49%
- Shots: Spain 15, Croatia 8
- Shots on target: Spain 5, Croatia 2
Match Highlights
The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Spain had more possession but failed to make it count, while Croatia looked dangerous on the break. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain dominating possession but Croatia coming close on a few occasions.
Extra time produced more of the same, with both teams continuing to cancel each other out. In the end, it came down to a penalty shootout, and Spain prevailed 5-4. Alvaro Morata scored the winning spot-kick to give Spain their first UEFA Nations League title.
Reaction
Spain manager Luis Enrique was delighted with his team's victory. "We knew it was going to be a difficult match, but we showed great character and resilience. We deserved to win," he said.
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic was disappointed with the result but praised his players for their efforts. "We gave it our all, but it wasn't enough. Spain were the better team on the night," he said.
The UEFA Nations League Final was a thrilling encounter between two of Europe's top teams. In the end, it was Spain who emerged victorious, but Croatia can take pride in their performance.
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