Spain and Croatia face off in their opening Euro 2024 Group B match at Berlin’s Olympiastadion on Saturday, June 15, at 18:00 CET.
This high-stakes clash sees three-time European champions Spain looking to kickstart their campaign for a fourth title against a resilient Croatia side.
These two teams have developed a competitive rivalry in recent years. Croatia was knocked out by Spain in a thrilling round of 16 match at Euro 2020 and suffered a penalty shootout defeat to La Furia Roja in the final of the 2022/23 Nations League. Despite this, Croatia remains a formidable force, having reached the World Cup semifinals just 18 months ago.
Head to head
Spain and Croatia have faced each other six times in competitive matches, with Spain holding a slight edge in the overall record. Spain has won three of these encounters, while Croatia has emerged victorious twice, and there have been no draws between the two sides.
The most recent encounter between the two teams took place on June 18, 2023, during the UEFA Nations League. The match ended in a 0-0 draw after regular and extra time, but Spain triumphed 5-4 on penalties. This victory allowed Spain to clinch the Nations League title, highlighting their proficiency in high-stakes matches.
Spain’s Form
Spain comes into this match as favorites to top Group B. Their recent form is impressive, with significant wins against Northern Ireland (5-1) and Andorra (5-0) in friendly matches. Their last five games show three wins, a draw, and one loss, including a notable 3-3 draw against Brazil.
Team News
There are questions about who will partner Pedri and Rodri in midfield and who will flank captain Alvaro Morata up front. Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino are contenders for the midfield spot, while Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres compete for the wide positions. Dani Carvajal is expected to start at right-back, with Alejandro Grimaldo likely preferred over Marc Cucurella at left-back.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Nacho, Le Normand, Grimaldo; Rodri, Pedri, Fabian; Yamal, Morata, Oyarzabal
Who's ready for this today?#Croatia #Spain #EURO2024pic.twitter.com/4hOtjT2GZz
— Croatian Football (@CroatiaFooty) June 15, 2024
Croatia’s Form
Croatia, under coach Zlatko Dalić, comes into the tournament with confidence following a strong 2-1 win against Portugal in their recent friendly. They have shown resilience and tactical acumen in their recent matches.
Team News
Croatia will rely heavily on their veterans, with Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Marcelo Brozovic set to start in midfield. Ivan Perisic is expected to play down the left, with Andrej Kramaric leading the attack. Josko Gvardiol’s excellent form could see him deployed at left-back.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol; Brozovic, Kovacic, Modric; Pasalic, Kramaric, Perisic
