Glory for Spain, heartbreak for Croatia as La Roja lifts Nations League title

Ayomikun Elemikan Sports 18/06/2023

Spain have won the third edition of the UEFA Nations League after emerging victorious 5-4 on penalties against Croatia on Sunday night.

The triumph means it is La Roja’s first international trophy for 11 years, last winning an international title at Euro 2012.

Spain have won the 2023 UEFA Nations League title, defeating Croatia 5-4 on penalties (Image: @brfootball)

With the victory, Spain also become the second nation to win the World Cup, European Championship and Nations League.

ALSO READ: Okobi out, Oshoala in as coach Waldrum names 23 Super Falcons for FIFA Women’s World Cup

The Spaniards follow the steps of France, who beat Spain in the 2021 Nations League final.

The match played in the city of Rotterdam had finished goalless after extra time. Real Madrid right back Dani Carvajal converted the decisive kick to condemn Croatia to yet another final defeat.

Croatia have always found a way to advance into the last four and/or final of major international tournaments but have failed to win.

At 18 years and 10 months old, Gavi became youngest player ever to win a title with Spain. He was a big part of Spain’s Nation League title win tonight (Image: @ChaaliiyKay)

They got to the final of the 2018 World Cup and finished third at Qatar 2022. Tonight, Real Madrid midfield maestro Luka Modric had the chance to earn his first piece of international silverware on his 166th international appearance, but failed to do that, yet again.

Celebration for Spain but another night of disappointment for Croatia

Gavi almost took advantage of Croatia’s slow start but dragged his shot wide even when he was in a good position to convert. Meanwhile, Croatia’s direct style of play was quite difficult to handle for their Spanish counterparts.

Andrej Kramaric almost scored but was denied by Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte. Although Croatia pressured the Spanish defence, it was La Roja that were presented with the better opportunities.

Croatia played extra time for the eighth time in their last 11 knockout games (Image: @brfootball)

Another Madrid player Marco Asensio came close with a fine header before Fabian Ruiz chipped narrowly over the post. Barcelona man Ansu Fati saw his effort cleared off the line by Tottenham midfielder Ivan Perisic in the second half.

ALSO READ: Liga F: Spain’s women’s professional league games suspended as referees go on strike

During extra time, neither of the two teams found the back of the net so the match had to go into penalties.