Croatia and Portugal conclude their League A Group 1 campaign in the UEFA Nations League with a high-stakes matchup at the Stadion Poljud tonight.
Portugal have already clinched their place in the quarter-finals as group winners, while Croatia only need a point to advance. With key players missing on both sides, this could be a intriguing end to the group.
Croatia Recent Form
Croatia’s recent form has been mixed. The team have secured seven points in recent Nations League matches but failed to confirm a quarter-final spot after a late loss to Scotland. The defeat marked a missed opportunity for Croatia, who now face added pressure to secure at least a point against Portugal.
Injury and Team News
Key midfielder Petar Sucic is suspended, adding to Croatia’s selection concerns. However, coach Zlatko Dalic is boosted by the return of goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic from suspension, and the presence of seasoned playmaker Luka Modric should help steady Croatia’s midfield.
Portugal Recent Form
Portugal have been in commanding form, comfortably winning Group 1. Roberto Martinez’s squad enjoyed a resounding 5-1 victory over Poland in their last outing, a game marked by two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal’s only group-stage slip came in a draw with Scotland, and the team now has the luxury to rotate players with a guaranteed quarter-final position.
Injury and Team News
Several stars, including Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes, have been sent back to their clubs with Portugal's qualification assured.
Fernandes is also suspended, leading to the inclusion of younger players like Joao Felix and Fabio Silva. Defensive adjustments could see Tiago Djalo and Geovany Quenda join the lineup as Portugal experiments with alternatives.
Croatia Player to Watch
Luka Modric will be pivotal for Croatia, both in orchestrating play from midfield and offering experience under pressure. His ability to control the tempo could be key to Croatia’s hopes of achieving a result.
Portugal Player to Watch
Joao Felix, likely given a central attacking role, will be crucial in Portugal’s setup. With Ronaldo absent, Felix’s pace and creativity could unlock the Croatian defence and add flair to Portugal’s attack.
Prediction
Given the stakes, a closely-fought game seems likely. Croatia may adopt a cautious approach, aiming to secure the point they need, while Portugal’s rotated lineup may focus on testing younger talent.
A 1-1 draw is a likely result.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score – Croatia’s need for a point should see them press for goals, while Portugal’s potent forward lineup makes them likely to score.
Tip 2
Draw at Full Time – With Croatia needing only a point and Portugal’s lineup likely to feature squad players, a draw is realistic.
Tip 3
Under 2.5 Goals – Portugal’s defence has been solid, and Croatia’s cautious approach could limit the scoreline.
