The opening match of what is set to be a fascinating Group B at Euro 2024 will take place in Berlin on Saturday, with Spain taking on Croatia. Spain, three-time winners of the European Championship, and semi-finalists at Euro 2020, will be aiming to start their campaign strongly against a Croatian side known for their deep tournament runs.
Croatia, having finished third at the last World Cup and unbeaten in their last six matches, are no strangers to high-stakes games. With both teams having formidable credentials and a lot at stake, this clash promises to be a tightly contested affair.
Spain vs Croatia H2H/Stats
- Croatia lost just once in seven games at the World Cup.
- Croatia forced Spain to penalties in the Nations League final.
- Croatia are unbeaten in their last six matches.
- Spain have won just three matches in their last nine group-stage games at tournaments.
- Spain has won six of their previous 10 matches against Croatia.
- Croatia scored nine times in their last three games.
- Spain defeated Croatia 5-3 after extra-time in the last-16 stage of Euro 2020.
Spain vs Croatia Team News
Both teams come into this match with a few uncertainties regarding their starting line-ups. Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente has kept his cards close to his chest, leaving several key players’ involvement in doubt. Similarly, Croatia’s Zlatko Dalic has a mostly settled squad but has to manage some injuries and fitness issues.
Spain:
- Aymeric Laporte: Missed training with a muscular issue; Nacho likely to start.
- Lamine Yamal: Set to become the youngest player to feature at a European Championship, expected to start on the right.
- Mikel Merino & Dani Olmo: Candidates to start but might be on the bench.
Croatia:
- Ivan Perisic: Not at 100% after a knee injury; likely to start on the bench.
- Marin Pongracic: Tipped to start alongside Josip Sutalo in central defense.
- Midfield Trio: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Marcelo Brozovic set to feature.
Probable Line-Up
Spain XI: Simon (GK); Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Grimaldo; Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Morata, Williams
Croatia XI: Livakovic (GK); Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol; Brozovic, Kovacic, Modric; Majer, Budimir, Kramaric
Verdict
This match is likely to be a tight and tactical battle, with both teams looking to avoid an opening-day defeat in this highly competitive group. Spain’s tendency to start slowly in major tournaments and Croatia’s impressive recent form suggest that this game could end in a draw.
Draw ❌
To bet on this match;
Register with Bettabets and receive 100% first deposit match of up to 250 ZAR.
How to Register
- Visit the Bettabets official website
- Tap on the “Join” button
- Enter your Mobile number
- Tick the box to indicate that you are not a robot
- Tap on the “Send Code” button
- Enter the verification code sent to your mobile number
- Create and confirm your newly created password
- Follow the instructions on the page and complete your registration
Use Bettabets Promocode > “SPORT”
Under 2.5 Goals ❌
Reason: Both sides are strong defensively, and with a cautious approach likely, a low-scoring game is expected.
Josko Gvardiol to Score Anytime❌
Reason: Gvardiol has shown a knack for scoring important goals, and his form at the end of the Premier League season suggests he could be an unlikely but valuable scorer.
Both Teams to Score ❌
Despite the defensive strengths, both teams have enough quality to find the net at least once in this high-stakes match.
Place your bet here 👉 SoccerShop
Betting Tips Today 👇
If you’re interested in sports betting, specifically football, and want to place well-informed wagers, you’ve landed in the right place. At Topbets, we specialize in offering expert football predictions and meticulously analyze various matches to enhance your betting strategy.
Today’s football predictions include a variety of popular betting markets, such as Betting Tips 1X2, both teams to score, and over 2.5 Predictions. Each prediction is carefully crafted, focusing on must-win teams and featuring accumulator tips and safe bets over 1.5 goals.
Our highlighted fixtures are selected from top-tier matches, with favorites boldly indicated to guide your choices. Remember, all betting should be approached with caution and responsibility. Happy betting!
Betting Tips 1X2
- Villa Mitre v Kimberley❌
- Fremantle City v Balcatta❌
- America MG v CRB✅
Both Teams To Score Today
- Bragantino v Juventude✅
- Heilongjiang IC v Guangxi Baoyun✅
- Quanzhou Yassin v Hunan Billows❌
Over 2.5 Predictions
- Skive v Thisted✅
- Esbjerg v Nykobing✅
- Aarhus Fremad v Roskilde✅
Accumulator tips
- Villa Mitre v Kimberley 1X ✅
- Heilongjiang IC v Guangxi Baoyun BTTS✅
- Aarhus Fremad v Roskilde Over 2.5 Goals✅
Expert in sports content and a lover of football. I’ve written various content, tips, and reviews of various betting platforms. Also, I’m a Chelsea fan who watches and follows many European leagues and equally follows Nigerian & South Africa leagues.
