Home/Soccer

We are just a matter of hours away as Germany takes on Scotland in the opening fixture of the Euros 2024. However, the excitement doesn’t stop there as World rank 8 Spain takes on World rank 10 Croatia in the opening fixture for Group B. Their rankings prove the quality of football the two nations have played over the past years.

Spain is entering the Euros as one contender for the silverware. Meanwhile, despite silencing their critics time and again, Croatia is once again the dark horse to win the tournament. Both teams love to rely on their crafty midfielders to make a breakthrough in the attacking third, and we are in for a high-voltage drama as these two sides lock horns this Saturday.

Spain vs Croatia: Prediction

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Both teams have what it takes to end the night with three points against the tally. While Croatia will depend on their midfield to control the game, Spain could turn the tide with the speed on their flanks. However, Croatia’s defense is no slouch with Josko Gvardiol and Josip Stanisic in sublime form. The game is likely to end in a draw all things considered.

Spain vs Croatia: Euros 2024 Team Updates

Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente will be with most of his men heading into the Euro opener. One key absentee against Croatia could be Aymeric Laporte, who has not passed the fitness check for the game. Real Madrid star Nacho Fernandes could be played in the position, with De la Fuente hoping to get three points out of the game.

Croatia has all their players available for selection, reducing their manager’s headache. Luka Modric is expected to lead the side in his final Euros as he pairs up with Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic in the midfield. Andrej Kramaric will probably get the nod over Ante Budimir to function as a number nine, while the Osasuna star is deployed on the flanks.

Spain vs Croatia: Predicted Lineups

Spain predicted playing XI: (4-3-3) Unai Simon; Dani Carvajal, Robin Le Normand, Nacho Fernandes, Alex Grimaldo; Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; Mikel Merino, Alvaro Morata, Nico Williams.

Croatia predicted playing XI: (4-3-3) Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Marin Pongracic, Josko Gvardiol; Marcelo Brozovic, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric; Lovro Majer, Ante Budimir, Andrej Kramaric.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Spain vs Croatia: When and Where to Watch Euros 2024

The live action between Spain and Croatia will come to our screens from the Olympiastadion Berlin. The match will kick off at 12:00 PM (EST) with fans in the United States able to catch the live coverage on Fox Sports USA English, Fubo TV, and VIX. Meanwhile, viewers in the United Kingdom will have to tune in to BBC TV Sport and ITV UK for the live action.