Croatia vs. Spain: UEFA Nations League Final Promises Thrilling Showdown(line-ups)

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The stage is set for an exhilarating clash as Croatia and Spain lock horns in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday, June 18. Both teams have showcased their prowess en route to the final, and anticipation is high for an epic battle. Croatia secured a historic berth in the final with a thrilling 4-2 victory over the Netherlands in extra time. Meanwhile, Spain clinched a hard-fought 2-1 win against Italy, courtesy of an 88th-minute winner from Joselu.

These two footballing powerhouses have a history of enthralling encounters. Spain narrowly defeated Croatia 1-0 in a memorable Group C clash at UEFA EURO 2012, only for Croatia to exact revenge with a 2-1 triumph in Group D at EURO 2016. In the UEFA Nations League in 2018, Spain produced a scintillating 6-0 victory over Croatia, but suffered a 3-2 defeat in their subsequent encounter.

However, their most recent meeting at EURO 2020 stole the spotlight. In a breathtaking match that went into extra time, Spain emerged victorious with a 5-3 scoreline. Mario Pašalić's last-minute goal for Croatia forced extra time, but Spain eventually sealed the win with goals from Álvaro Morata and Mikel Oyarzabal.

With an average of six goals per match in their previous three encounters, expectations are high for another high-scoring showdown. 

Possible Line-ups:

Spain: Simón; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Alba; Rodri, Merino; Asensio, Gavi, Fati; Morata

Croatia: Livaković; Juranović, Vida, Šutalo, Perišić; Modrić, Kovačić, Brozović; Pašalić, Kramarić, Ivanušec

Coaches Zlatko Dalić and Luis De La Fuente express their mutual respect for each other's teams, highlighting the challenge they expect in this final clash. Dalić acknowledges Spain's possession-based style and individual talent but believes Croatia has the quality to compete. Perišić emphasizes Croatia's experience and their motivation to secure their first major trophy.

Spain's coach, De La Fuente, acknowledges Croatia's unpredictability and highlights the importance of capitalizing on their strengths. Meanwhile, Rodri praises Croatia's impressive track record against top teams and expresses Spain's determination to win the tournament.

As football enthusiasts eagerly await the final, all eyes are on the battle between these formidable teams, fueled by their shared ambition to claim the UEFA Nations League trophy.