Croatia vs Spain: Battle for the Nations League Trophy
Croatia and Spain will face off in the Nations League final this weekend, with both teams vying for their first major international trophy. The small European nation of Croatia, with a population of just under 4 million, has experienced a golden generation of stars over the past decade that has taken them close to glory. Led by Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric, Croatia finished runners-up at the 2018 World Cup before earning a bronze medal four years later in Qatar. However, their current crop looks to be coming to an end, with increased speculation about Modric’s future at 37 years old. This could be his last chance to lift a major trophy with his country following Croatia’s 4-2 semi-final win over the Netherlands.
Spain, on the other hand, is looking for instant success under new boss Luis de la Fuente. They edged past Italy 2-1 in the semi-finals and will be hoping to continue their winning streak against Croatia. The match will take place on Sunday, June 18, at the De Kuip Stadium in the Netherlands, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm UK time.
How to Follow the Match
The match will be broadcast live on ViaPlay Sports, with subscribers having the option of streaming on their website or app. A monthly subscription will cost £14.99 or £11.99 if you sign up to a 12-month contract. TalkSPORT will have live updates throughout the evening while talkSPORT.com will also be running a live blog as well. To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream. You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.
Squads
Croatia’s squad includes Dominik Livakovic, Nediljko Labrovic, Ivica Ivusic as goalkeepers, Josip Stanisic, Borna Barisic, Martin Erlic, Josip Sutalo, Borna Sosa, Domagoj Vida, Josip Juranovic as defenders, Lovro Majer, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, Nikola Vlasic, Ivan Perisic, Mario Pasalic, Luka Ivanusec as midfielders and Andrej Kramaric, Bruno Petkovic, Petar Musa, Dion Drena Beljo as forwards.
Spain’s squad includes Kepa Arrizabalaga, David Raya, Unai Simon as goalkeepers, Dani Carvajal, Robin Le Normand, Nacho, Aymeric Laporte, Fran Garcia, Jordi Alba as defenders, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Fabian Ruiz, Gavi, Sergio Canales, Rodri as midfielders and Alvaro Morata, Marco Asensio, Ansu Fati, Yeremy Pino, Rodrigo, Joselu, Dani Olmo, Jesus Navas as forwards.
What Has Been Said?
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic said: “I told my guys after the match: ‘It’s all great, but we have to stay calm and smart on our way to the final. That gold is my big wish, but not only mine – it’s the wish of all of us.” On Modric, Dalic added: “Luka is unique, unrepeatable in the whole world. He is an icon wherever he goes. When he was substituted in the match, he received an ovation from the whole stadium. He is incredible.”
Conclusion
The Croatia vs Spain Nations League final promises to be an exciting match between two talented teams. Croatia will be looking to claim their first major international trophy, while Spain will be hoping to continue their winning streak under new boss Luis de la Fuente. With both teams boasting a wealth of talent, it’s sure to be a thrilling encounter. Don’t miss out on the action and tune in to watch the match live.