Spain and Croatia are set to face off in their opening match of Euro 2024, a highly anticipated encounter between two of the tournament’s favorites. Both teams are part of a challenging Group B, which also includes Italy and Albania. The outcome of this match will likely set the tone for the top spot in the group.
Spain enters the tournament as one of the main contenders to lift the trophy, having previously won the Euro in 2008 and 2012. They also reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020. On the other hand, Croatia has been making waves in international football since their impressive run to the final of the 2018 World Cup. They finished third in the 2022 World Cup but only made it to the Last 16 of Euro 2020 and 2016.
Both teams boast a number of star players who will be crucial to their success in Germany. Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, may have to wait on the fitness of Barcelona’s Pedri, while Croatia will have Tottenham’s Ivan Perisic back in action after a season-long injury. Other notable players include Spain’s Rodri, who will need to replicate his Manchester City form, and Croatia’s national hero, Luka Modric.
In head-to-head matchups, Spain has had the upper hand against Croatia, winning six out of their ten encounters across all competitions. They have also won six of their last nine matches. However, the two sides have faced each other three times in the Euros, with Spain winning twice and Croatia securing one victory.
As for the upcoming match, Spain is considered the slight favorite against Croatia’s aging golden generation. It is expected to be a closely contested game between two tournament favorites.
The Spain vs Croatia match is scheduled for Saturday, June 15th, at 5pm BST. It will be held at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany. UK viewers can watch the game live on ITV 1 or stream it through the ITV X app. The odds for the match favor Spain at 3/4, with a draw at 27/10 and a Croatia victory at 15/4.
Overall, the Spain vs Croatia match promises to be an exciting start to Euro 2024, with both teams aiming to make their mark in the tournament.