Sometimes, the anticipation of an eagerly awaited occasion creates expectations that reality cannot quite live up to. This time, however, the excitement surrounding Spain’s first match on home soil was so great that the evening could easily have fallen short for some. But Luis de la Fuente’s side, together with the RFEF’s meticulous organisation, ensured that everyone in attendance enjoyed a night to remember. 29 September 2026 will be remembered as the day Spain’s national team repaid its supporters for all the affection and support that helped drive the team to its second World Cup star.

Jesús Navas, a 2010 World Cup winner, two-time European champion (2012 and 2024) and UEFA Nations League winner (2023), presented the World Cup trophy to Rodrigo, Spain’s captain, so that he could share it with the supporters. It was a powerful symbol of unity between the two teams that stitched together the two stars Spain now proudly wear on their shirt.

Just 70 seconds were enough for Lamine Yamal to leave his mark on a historic night. The Spain and FC Barcelona forward scored even earlier than he had at Wembley, where he found the net after 104 seconds. Two goals inside the opening two minutes across two consecutive matches had never been achieved before.

Spain are unbeaten in 26 matches at the Sánchez-Pizjuán

Spain pressed forward from the very first minute, with Fermín, Baena, Lamine and Oyarzabal repeatedly threatening the Croatian penalty area. However, it was Croatia who struck next, equalising before Spain could establish a lead. A cross from Perisic was headed home by Beljo in the 28th minute to make it 1-1.

The world champions had no intention of giving up, and just three minutes later Marc Pubill, following an assist from Lamine Yamal, powered the ball into the Croatian net. The international defender had scored his first goal for Spain.

Luis de la Fuente’s side could even have gone into half-time with a bigger advantage. Fermín struck the post, while Oyarzabal saw a goal ruled out for offside. After the break, the match became more physical, with more collisions and greater intensity. It was another reminder that this is no minor competition: Croatia had also beaten the Czech Republic in their opening match and were not prepared to back down, even against the reigning world champions.

Spain make it 40 consecutive matches unbeaten as the record continues to grow

Lamine Yamal wanted to put the result beyond doubt and did just that, cutting inside from the right and firing a low shot across goal to score Spain’s third and his second of the night. But the celebrations did not end there. Just when the supporters thought they had enjoyed everything the evening had to offer, Nico Williams joined the party. His powerful strike made it 4-1 in the 88th minute.

Luis de la Fuente’s side will face their next challenge in Oviedo this Saturday, 3 October, when they take on the Czech Republic on Matchday 3 of the UEFA Nations League.