Merino Inspires Spain, Kane Stars for England with Brace and Record

The Nations League saw another evening of goals and drama. Following Italy's win, Spain and England took to the field against Croatia and the Czech Republic, respectively.

Merino Enters and Lifts Spain; Kane Sets Record

England comfortably defeated the Czech Republic 3-0. Harry Kane scored twice, reaching 125 caps for England, equaling Shilton's record. Coufal's own goal had opened the scoring. Spain faced a tougher challenge in Croatia. Perišić's header put Croatia ahead in the first half. Merino, a substitute, equalized with a shot after coming on minutes earlier. With ten minutes remaining, Perišić missed a close-range chance and was later sent off for a second yellow card after fouling Cucurella. Croatia were reduced to ten men, and Spain pressed. In the 89th minute, Merino scored the winning goal, a left-footed shot after an acrobatic control in the box.

Switzerland Thrashes North Macedonia

Scotland and Slovenia played out a match with moments of excitement. Christie gave Scotland the lead, but Slovenia equalized through Matko's strike. Sturm then put Slovenia ahead. Switzerland dominated their match against North Macedonia. After numerous chances, Rieder broke the deadlock early in the second half. Manzabi doubled the lead, capitalizing on an injury to North Macedonia's goalkeeper. Ndoye added a third goal late on.

San Marino Falls Late in Albania

San Marino came close to an upset in Albania. After Asllani opened the scoring for Albania, Lazzari, a substitute, netted a historic equalizer for San Marino with a close-range finish from a cross. In stoppage time, Fabbri conceded a penalty for a handball. Asllani converted the spot-kick, giving Albania a 2-1 victory. Kazakhstan and the Faroe Islands drew 2-2. Slovakia secured a decisive 4-0 win against Moldova, with Suslov of Verona scoring. Bulgaria also won away 2-0 against Luxembourg. Belarus beat Finland 1-0, and Estonia and Iceland finished 0-0.