Croatia reaches UEFA Nations League quarterfinals …Scotland, Spain win
Croatia booked their spot in the Nations League quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw with Portugal.
A heavily rotated visiting side did not feature Cristiano Ronaldo or Bruno Fernandes, leaving Rafael Leão to lead the charge for the visitors.
The Milan star had plenty of chances to open the scoring, but it was João Félix who did, after expertly controlling the ball and slotting home his first in the competition.
Veteran Luka Modrić attempted to rally the hosts forward, but with only one shot on target after the first 45 minutes, Croatia faced more pressure to keep themselves alive.
In the second half that all changed. Chances flew and Joško Gvardiol put the ball in the back of the net as Portugal’s defence fell asleep, but it was ruled out for offside.
Yet one minute later, the defender flew in at the back post and ensured his second attempt counted.
Portugal came close to conceding a second time as Croatia hit the woodwork in the dying minutes. But they held on for the draw and also kept their unbeaten run alive.
Scotland waited until the death to stun Poland 2-1 and reach the League A/B playoffs.
Things got off to a flying start when Ben Doak teed up John McGinn for his 20th international goal.
Polish pressure then continued after the break. John Souttar cleared an effort off the line minutes after the restart before a thunderstrike levelled the game.
Captain Andy Robertson headed home a cross from Souttar in the dying seconds to secure the win and his first goal in five years.
The result relegated Poland to League B.
Spain held on to earn a thrilling 3-2 victory over Switzerland at the death while Northern Ireland earned Nations League promotion after a 2-2 draw with Luxembourg.
Results
Liechtenstein 1-3 San Marino
Serbia 0-0 Denmark
Romania 4-1 Cyprus
Bulgaria 1-1 Belarus
Kosovo 1-0 Lithuania