- Date and Time: November 18, 19:45 GMT+1
- Venue: Poljud, Split, Croatia
Croatia vs Portugal Preview
Croatia
Croatia is experiencing a difficult generational change, and the recent results only highlight their growing pains. Despite their unexpected loss against Scotland (0-1), the Croatians secured a spot in the playoffs.
The Blazers’ strength lies in their experience and cohesive teamwork, traits that have defined the Croatian side for years. Their tactical discipline and ability to maintain a high average performance level across tournaments remain their key assets.
Final practice session: done ✔️#NationsLeague #Vatreni❤️🔥 pic.twitter.com/UJxKQqQFvh
— HNS (@HNS_CFF) November 17, 2024
A serious problem is the absence of a scoring centre forward. Zlatko Dalić simply does not have a lethal striker at his disposal. Both Andrej Kramarić and Ante Budimir are 33 and far from their best years.
Dalić is likely to shuffle his lineup for the upcoming match. Dominik Livaković is expected to return between the posts after serving a suspension for a red card. Petar Sučić got sent off in the previous match and will be suspended for the match against Portugal, likely making room for Mario Pašalić in the starting XI.
Portugal
Portugal have convincingly secured first place in their group. The last round was marked by an astounding victory over Poland (5-1). After a dull first half, the show began in the 59th minute, with Cristiano Ronaldo stealing the spotlight with a well-taken brace and an assist.
Right now, Portugal have probably one of the best squads in the world, seamlessly blending seasoned veterans with promising young talent. In each position, there is a wealth of quality options. Their defenders, particularly the centre-backs, frequently contribute to offensive play alongside the dynamic full-backs.
Expect a rotated lineup on Monday. https://t.co/fNx2O0SRUZ
— Seleção Portuguesa (@PortugalTalks) November 15, 2024
In recent years, the Portuguese have demonstrated their true level only in the qualifiers. The team’s style is purely attacking, with serious pressure on the opponent’s defence.
Ahead of the match with Croatia, Roberto Martinez has opted to rotate his squad and provide some much-needed rest to key players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto and Bernardo Silva. This opens the door for João Félix, Otávio, Francisco Conceição and Vitinha to show what they can offer.
Bet hereCroatia vs Portugal Prediction
- Pick: Portugal to Win
- Odds: 2.80 (22Bet)
- Score prediction: Croatia 1-2 Portugal
Both teams have already punched their tickets to the playoffs. Croatia will have a slight advantage playing at home, though this might not be pivotal.
Portugal, even without key players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, possess ample depth and quality to dictate proceedings. The likes of João Félix and Otávio have the creative spark to step into the spotlight, while their defensive solidity adds another layer of assurance.
After a slow first half, Portugal get a thrilling 5-1 win against Poland to secure first place in their Nations League Group and reach the Quarter-Finals. 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/K1yDSXzyqA
— Seleção Portuguesa (@PortugalTalks) November 15, 2024
In turn, Croatia have lost points against Poland and Scotland for two rounds in a row. They lack consistency and will find it hard to show a positive result against well-performing Portugal. Our pick for this match would be Portugal to win.
Croatia vs Portugal Prediction, Betting Tip
- Pick: Both Teams to Score
- Odds: 1.67 (22Bet)
We should also note that these teams have frequently crossed paths in recent years. In almost every case, they produced intense action and entertainment with exciting moments.
For five games in a row, both teams found the back of the net. As the match does not carry any importance, we think that it’s unlikely that either team will prioritize defensive solidity.
Croatia have scored at least once in six out of seven outings, and Portugal in four out of five. The teams will probably play without any pressure, as everything is already settled. Therefore, our second pick for this meeting is both teams to score.
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