Croatia and Albania face off in a crucial Euro 2024 group stage match at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg.
Both teams aim to secure their first points in Group B after suffering defeats in their opening matches. Here’s a detailed preview of the upcoming clash, including predictions, team news, and lineups.
Croatia’s Form and Performance
Croatia, a seasoned contender in the European Championships, entered their seventh appearance with high expectations. However, they faced a humbling 3-0 defeat to Spain in their opener.
Despite having 16 shots and an expected goals total of 2.38, Croatia failed to score.
This marked their third defeat in the last five competitive matches, highlighting a decline in form. To stay in contention for the knockout stages, Croatia needs a strong performance against Albania.
Albania’s Form and Performance
Albania, participating in their second European Championship, lost 2-1 to Italy despite a stunning early goal from Nedim Bajrami.
This defeat ended their seven-game unbeaten streak in competitive matches. Albania’s challenge now is to secure points against Croatia to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
Their form leading up to the Euros was impressive, finishing ahead of Poland and the Czech Republic in the qualifiers.
Team News
Croatia
Croatia’s head coach Zlatko Dalic may make changes following their sluggish start.
Key changes could include Josko Gvardiol returning to central defence and Borna Sosa starting at left-back.
The midfield might see Luka Sucic or Mario Pasalic replacing Marcelo Brozovic.
Despite criticism for missing a penalty against Spain, the front three is expected to remain unchanged due to Ivan Perisic’s ongoing fitness issues.
Predicted Croatia lineup: Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa; Modric, Sucic, Kovacic; Majer, Budimir, Kramaric
Albania
Albania faces a major doubt with forward Jasir Asani potentially missing out due to an ankle injury.
Arber Hoxha may step in from the bench. The attack will likely be led by either Rey Manaj or Chelsea's Armando Broja, supported by Nedim Bajrami, who has been in excellent form for the national team.
Predicted Albania lineup: Strakosha; Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Asllani, Ramadani; Laci, Bajrami, Hoxha; Broja
Prediction
The stakes are high for both teams, as another defeat would likely mean elimination.
Croatia's experience in major tournaments should give them the edge over Albania. While Albania will put up a strong fight, Croatia are expected to secure a narrow victory, which is our prediction.
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