Croatia vs Portugal Prediction, Preview, Lineups, Team News | UEFA Nations League

Croatia vs Portugal Prediction, Preview, Lineups, and Team News | UEFA Nations League.

The UEFA Nations League brings a thrilling showdown as Croatia and Portugal face off in League A Group 1. This highly anticipated clash will take place on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the Gradski stadion u Poljud in Split, Croatia. While Portugal has already secured the top spot in the group, Croatia faces a crucial match to solidify their second-place finish and avoid any potential slip-ups.

Match Details

• Tournament: UEFA Nations League
• Fixtures: Croatia National Football Team vs Portugal National Football Team
• Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
• Kick-off Time: 7:45 pm GMT
• Venue: Gradski stadion u Poljud, Split, Croatia

Match Preview: Croatia vs Portugal

This game is pivotal for Croatia, as they aim to secure a top-two finish in League A Group 1. Croatia suffered a shocking defeat to Scotland in their previous match, leaving them on seven points and vulnerable to a late upset if Poland wins big against Scotland. A draw or win would ensure Croatia retains their position.

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For Portugal, this match is more of a formality. The Seleção have been in dominant form, clinching the group’s top spot after a commanding win against Poland. Portugal will likely look to maintain their unbeaten streak, though they may not push too hard with no stakes on the line.

Croatia Team News

Croatia National Football Team will enter this match with a mostly fit squad but will be without Petar Sucic, who received a red card in their last game against Scotland. Despite this setback, Croatia boasts a strong lineup led by their veteran midfielder Luka Modric, who continues to be the team’s linchpin. The hosts will rely on their experienced players to rise to the occasion and deliver a result.

Portugal Team News

Portugal National Football Team has no injuries or suspensions, allowing manager Roberto Martínez to field his best lineup. There may, however, be some tactical adjustments, with Joao Felix potentially starting ahead of Pedro Neto to provide additional firepower alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. The Seleção’s depth and quality make them formidable opponents, even if the stakes are lower. Bruno Fernandes would have missed the game anyway through suspension. He was shown his third yellow card of the competition vs Poland – meaning he will have to serve a one-game ban which will come against Croatia.

With top spot in the group already signed, sealed and delivered, Martinez has allowed some of his big-hitters in Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, Neto and Fernandes – who is suspended for Monday’s game anyway – to head back to their clubs early, a huge boost for Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.

To plug the gaps, Martinez has promoted Fabio Silva and in-demand Sporting Lisbon full-back Geovany Quenda up from the Under-21s, and Tiago Djalo is expected to be involved too, having been the unfortunate man to miss out on the 23-player squad against Poland.

Sure to make an abundance of changes for Monday’s game, the Portugal boss could introduce the likes of Joao Felix, Joao Cancelo and Vitinha into the Portugal XI, while Rui Silva and Jose Sa will battle to displace Diogo Costa in goal.

Predicted Lineups

Croatia National Football Team Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
• Defenders: Duje Caleta-Car, Marin Pongracic, Josko Gvardiol, Borna Sosa
• Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic, Andrej Kramaric
• Forward: Mislav Orsic

Portugal National Football Team Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
• Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Antonio Silva, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga
• Midfielders: Vitinha, Rafael Leao, Neves, Conceicao
• Forwards: Trincao, Joao Felix

Head-to-Head Record

Croatia and Portugal have faced each other nine times in history. The record heavily favors Portugal, with seven wins, one draw, and just one victory for Croatia. The last meeting saw Portugal emerge victorious, and they will be looking to maintain their dominance in this fixture.

Key Players to Watch

Luka Modric (Croatia):

At 38, Luka Modric remains the heart of Croatia’s midfield. His exceptional passing, vision, and leadership are integral to his team’s success. Modric’s ability to control the tempo and challenge Portugal’s midfield trio of Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes will be crucial.

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal):

Even at 39, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy age with his remarkable performances. Ronaldo has scored in every group-stage game except the draw against Scotland. His brace against Poland, including a stunning bicycle kick, underscores his enduring brilliance. Expect Ronaldo to lead Portugal’s attack once again.

Match Prediction

Croatia’s need for a positive result and home advantage could give them the edge in this game. Portugal, with no stakes involved, might opt for a conservative approach to avoid injuries and fatigue. Croatia’s motivation to secure second place may prove decisive.

Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Croatia 2-2 Portugal

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Where to Watch Croatia vs Portugal Live

Conclusion

As Croatia battles to secure their spot in the top two of League A Group 1, Portugal will look to maintain their unbeaten record in the group. While Croatia has more at stake, Portugal’s quality cannot be underestimated. Expect an intense encounter in Split, with both teams fielding strong lineups and delivering a memorable game for fans worldwide.