Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Preview, Prediction, h2h, Team Squads, Predicted Lineups, Players to Watch and Match Details

Spain vs. Croatia, the first truly important match of the finals, will kick off Group B of the UEFA Euro 2024 action on Saturday. The Spanish team, who has won this competition three times, advanced to the semifinals in 2020 before falling short against Italy. After winning seven of their eight games, Luis de la Fuente’s squad easily qualified as the Group A winners. Despite placing third and second in the previous two World Cup Final tournaments, Croatia has not performed well at the Euros; they will meet this team. To make it to this summer’s finals, Zlatko Dalic’s team had to place second in Group D, behind Turkey.

Spain is feeling more confident going into their opening Euro 2024 match against Croatia.

Luis de la Fuente’s appointment has infused new hope even though La Roja is obviously no longer the formidable force of old on the international stage.

After their 2022 World Cup loss to Morocco via penalty shootout, Luis Enrique left, and things are beginning to get better after a rough beginning.

They’ve shown improvement with victories over Italy and Croatia, and their young team includes several gifted players, most notably teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal of Barcelona.

At the European Championships, Croatia has yet to win a knockout match and lost to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.

However, they are simply irreplaceable as Luka Modric gets ready for what will undoubtedly be his final dance. Without a doubt, Group B is the dreaded “group of death,” with Albania and Italy—who won their qualifying group—also participating.

Here is all the information you need to know about the two teams’ exciting 5-3 match in 2021, which saw Spain win.

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Preview

On June 15, Spain will play the opening match of Euro 2024 against Croatia. Spain is confident going into the tournament, having dropped just one of their previous 12 games. They are the front-runners to win Group B.

Croatia is also playing very well. In their last five games, they have won four and drawn one. Interestingly, they defeated Portugal 2-1, despite the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo from that game. In Group B, Croatia is anticipated to contend with Italy for the second spot.

Spain has been very effective offensively, scoring 38 goals at an average of 3.2 goals per game over the last two years. In the same time frame, Croatia’s defense gave up just seven goals, or an average of 0.6 goals per game.

Spain is the fourth favorite in the betting odds and the number one seed in Group B. In this series, Spain has won four of the previous six games, including their most recent meeting, which ended in a 5-3 victory. Following a defeat in their first game, Spain easily advanced through the qualifying round by winning six games, including three clean sheets. On their route to a Nation’s League Championship, Spain defeated both Croatia and Italy. In the Championship match, they triumphed over this same Croatian team.

In Group B, Croatia is the second seed. Croatia and Wales drew 1-1 to begin the qualification process. Even though Croatia began the second round with two disappointing losses, they occasionally displayed their superiority, winning 5-0 over Latvia. Croatia is a team that will have many opportunities, but in order to advance far, they will need to take advantage of those opportunities. International theater has long been a source of success for Croatia. In Qatar, this team did win a bronze.

Conversely, Spain has given up 10 goals in their past 12 games, while Croatia has scored 22 goals in 12 games.

Both teams need to win this game because it will determine how the tournament will go overall. Italy and Albania are also in Group B, so every game matters. When Spain and Croatia play their opening matches of Euro 2024 in Germany, fans can anticipate an exciting match.

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Team News

Spain

Spain has advanced to the semifinals or higher in three of the previous four European Championship competitions, taking home the titles in 2008 and 2012. A Round of 16 exit in 2016 was their lone mishap. These young Spanish talents easily advanced through the qualifying round, taking first place in Group A ahead of Scotland after winning seven of their eight matches. They did lose in March, losing 1-0 to Colombia in London, but they bounced back with a 3-3 draw against Brazil in Madrid and two five-goal wins, first over Andorra 5-0 and then over Northern Ireland 5-1 in their most recent Euro 2024 warm-up fixture. Both teams will see this match as a must-win before their second game because Italy and Albania are the other two teams in Group B.

Recently, Spain has been playing a dominant form. This team is performing at a higher level thanks to Luis de la Fuente. Spain has only suffered one defeat since 2021. Although Yamal and Pedri are leading Spain in this tournament, they are by no means the country’s main contributors. Though they are arguably the best team in the tournament, this team most definitely lacks experience. Although they have the championship pedigree, it won’t be an easy task. Spain finished third in the qualifying round in terms of points scored. They scored 25 goals in 8 games. Spain doesn’t give up goals and has a strong defense.

Croatia

Wales was surpassed by Croatia to qualify second in Group D. They have triumphed in each of their last three games and have not lost in six. This has included victories of 3-0 at home against North Macedonia, an outstanding 4-2 away against Egypt, and most recently, an equally impressive 2-1 away victory against Portugal in their final tournament warm-up match. Spain prevailed on penalties following a 0-0 draw in the Nations League Final in Rotterdam, where the two teams have met multiple times in recent times. They had previously competed against each other in the previous European Championship, where Spain prevailed 5-3 in extra time after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the Round of 16. Ivan Perisic (35), Domagoj Vida (35), and the outstanding Luka Modric (38), among other important, more experienced players, are still important to Croatia’s success.

Croatia had a difficult journey to get here. However, they are the second seed and have a ton of experience playing in these kinds of games. Croatia can appear strong at times, but they struggle to convert chances into goals. Spain may face difficulties from Croatia, a formidable defensive unit. In their most recent game, they held Spain to a 0-0 draw.

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Head to Head (h2h) 

There have been ten previous encounters between Spain and Croatia, with Spain holding the superior overall record with six victories against Croatia’s three. When the two teams last faced off, it was in the UEFA Nations League final, which Spain won on penalties following a dull 0-0 draw. On Saturday, Croatia will be looking for retribution, but neutrals should just be hoping for a better game.

These two sides will most likely be very familiar with one another. In fact, Spain and Croatia are competing against one another in the Euros for the fourth time in a row.

Spain and Italy have met at four consecutive European Championships between 2008 and 2020, the only other time that has happened. Naturally, they will also engage in combat at their fifth tournament in a row when they meet on June 20 in Gelsenkirchen.

Spain defeated Croatia 2-1 at Euro 2016, but they had won two of their previous three meetings (5-3 at Euro 2020 and 1-0 at Euro 2012).

There might be a fun event in store if past events are any indication.

At least five goals have been scored in three of the last five encounters between Spain and Croatia. The most recent encounter, which Spain won 5-3 in extra time three years ago, is the second-highest scoring game in Euro history, behind France’s 4-5 victory over Yugoslavia in 1960.

After ten matches, Spain leads Croatia 6-3 with one draw.

When they last faced off in June 2023, Spain prevailed 0-0 in regulation time on penalties to win the UEFA Nations League finals.

Head to head (h2h) history and results

Spain wins: 6
Draws: 1
Croatia wins: 3

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Date, Kickoff time and Venue

The match between Croatia and Spain is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. BST on Saturday, June 15, 2024.

The Olympiastadion in Berlin will host.

When does the Croatia vs. Spain kickoff happen?

On June 15 at 6:00 p.m. local time, the Olympiastadion in Berlin will host this Euro 2024 match.

The following represents how that time is equivalent in some of the world’s most populous regions:

	Date	Kickoff time
USA/Canada	Sat, Jun. 15	12 p.m. ET
USA/Canada	Sat, Jun. 15	9 a.m. PT
UK	Sat, Jun. 15	5 p.m. BST
Australia	Sun, Jun. 16	2 a.m. AEST
India	Sat, Jun. 15	9:30 p.m. IST

Where can I watch Spain vs Croatia?

TV channel: ITV1 will broadcast the game in the UK, with coverage beginning at 4:15 p.m.

Live stream: There will be an online live stream available on the ITVX website and app.

Spain vs. Croatia live stream, TV channel

This is how you can watch the Euro 2024 match in a few various areas of the world’s major regions:

	TV channel	Streaming
USA	Fox Sports Network	Fubo, FOX Sports app/website, ViX
Canada	TVA Sports, TSN 1, TSN 4, CTV	TVA+, TVA app/website, CTV app
UK	ITV1, STV	ITVX, STV Player
Australia	—	Optus Sport
India	SONY TEN 2, SONY TEN 3	JioTV, Sony LIV

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Prediction

Spain is as strong and attractive in both ends as they were under Luis Enrique, but they are a little difficult to predict because of the central defensive tandem of Aymeric Laporte and Robin Le Normand and the captain Alvaro Morata’s penchant for luxury. Although they have scored a lot of goals recently, this game could end up being a classic early tournament match in which the two teams neutralize each other due to Croatia’s shrewd experience and strong defense.

Goals are much more likely to be scored in this match, according to the data between these two teams. Both teams appear to be finding the net, based on their recent performance. Additionally, neither side is a strong defensive unit; rather, they are far more formidable attackers. Given that Italy is also in Group B, both teams may be motivated to win this game in order to avoid defeat, which makes our prediction more appealing than one based solely on the result.

The soccer world is ablaze with predictions for the forthcoming match between Spain and Croatia in Euro 2024, which is set for June 15, 2024. This match, one of the prominent fixture of Euro 2024, is evidence of the excellent football the league produces. Spain is preparing for a strong performance because they will be playing at home. But Croatia is ready to defy expectations in the unpredictable world of Euro 2024, bringing their own strategies and passion to the match. This match looks to be an exciting demonstration of strategy and skill, fitting with the competitive nature of Euro 2024.

Regarding Euro 2024, the tactical match between Croatia and Spain on June 15, 2024, is anticipated to be the season’s high point. It looks like this will be a strategic battle between two teams trying to outmaneuver one another. The home crowd may give the Spain, who are renowned for their tactical discipline, the advantage. But the Croatia should be a tough opponent because of their expected level of flexibility and agility on the field. Fans of the game should not miss Euro 2024 because the contest is not just about winning but also about showcasing football brilliance.

There is a tangible sense of excitement among sports commentators and fans for the June 15, 2024, Euro 2024 match between Croatia and Spain. Predictions are afoot, and a number of scenarios are being considered for this important match. Croatia’s main goal is to counter the home-field advantage with skill and resiliency, while Spain wants to capitalize on the passion of their home crowd.

This Euro 2024 match is more than just a competition; it’s an exhibition of the league’s incredible talent and the unpredictable nature of football. There is a lot of excitement building ahead of Spain and Croatia’s match, which promises to be a memorable encounter at Euro 2024.

Although there’s a chance this game will be closely contested, Spain should dominate the midfield. Spain is the favorite against Croatia in their first UEFA Euro 2024 match.

But Croatia has won all five of their previous meetings. Although there is a lot of anticipation for Spain, it is hard to pick a clear winner because of Croatia’s track record in big tournaments. With strong squads from both sides, this game should be an exciting one.

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Team Squads

Spain Team Squad

Álex Baena, Álex Grimaldo, Álex Remiro, Álvaro Morata, Aymeric Laporte, Ayoze Pérez, Dani Carvajal, Dani Olmo, Dani Vivian, David Raya, Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, Ferran Torres, Joselu, Jesús Navas, Lamine Yamal, Marc Cucurella, Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nacho, Nico Williams, Pedri, Robin Le Normand, Rodri, Unai Simón.

Head coach: Luis de la Fuente

Croatia Team Squad

Andrej Kramaric, Ante Budimir, Bruno Petkovic, Borna Sosa, Domagoj Vida, Dominik Livakovic, Ivan Perisic, Ivica Ivusic, Josip Juranovic, Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Josko Gvardiol, Lovro Majer, Luka Ivanusec, Luka Modric, Luka Sucic, Marco Pasalic, Marko Pjaca, Marcelo Brozovic, Mario Pasalic, Martin Baturina, Mateo Kovacic, Marin Pongracic, Martin Erlic, Nediljko Labrovic, Nikola Vlasic.

Head coach: Zlatko Dalic

Spain Squad & Team News

Goalkeepers: Álex Remiro, David Raya, Unai Simón
Defenders: Álex Grimaldo, Aymeric Laporte, Dani Carvajal, Daniel Vivian, Jesús Navas, Marc Cucurella, Nacho, Pau Cubarsí, Robin Le Normand
Midfielders: Álex Baena, Aleix García, Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, Marcos Llorente, Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Pedri, Rodri
Forwards: Álvaro Morata (captain), Ayoze Pérez, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, Joselu, Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams

Jose Gaya, Marco Asensio and Alejandro Balde are injured.

Pau Torres, Gavi, Pablo Sarabia, and Rodrigo Moreno were not called up.

Croatia Squad & Team News

Goalkeepers: Dominik Livaković, Ivica Ivušić, Nediljko Labrović
Defenders: Borna Sosa, Domagoj Vida, Josip Juranović, Josip Stanišić, Josip Šutalo, Joško Gvardiol, Martin Erlić, Marin Pongračić
Midfielders: Lovro Majer, Luka Modrić, Luka Ivanušec, Luka Sučić, Martin BaturinaMateo Kovačić, Marcelo Brozović, Mario Pašalić, Nikola Vlašić
Forwards: Andrej Kramarić, Ante Budimir, Bruno Petković, Ivan Perišić, Marko Pjaca, Marco Pašalić

Dominik Kotarski, Borna Barišić, Duje Ćaleta-Car, and Kristijan Jakić were left out of the squad.

Andrej Kramarić has scored 28 goals in 93 appearances.

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Predicted Lineups

SPAIN PREDICTED XI (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Alex Grimaldo, Dani Carvajal, Laporte, Le Normand; Fabian Ruiz, Pedri, Rodri; Alvaro Morata, Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams

CROATIA PREDICTED XI (4-3-3): Livakovic; Gvardiol, Pongracic, Stanisic, Sutalo; Kovacic, Modric, Brozovic; Budimir, Kramaric, Majer

Spain vs Croatia, UEFA Euro 2024 – Players to Watch

Spain Key Players 

• This past season, Alex Grimaldo finished with 33 goals and 12 assists while playing for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
• Alvaro Morata scored 15 goals and provided four assists in 34 games for Atletico Madrid in the previous La Liga season.
• In 31 La Liga games for Athletic Bilbao last season, Nicholas Williams’ club stats were 13 assists and five goals.
• Alex Baena made 34 appearances for Villarreal CF in La Liga last season, finishing with two goals and fourteen assists.

Croatia Key Players

• In 31 games this past season, Andrej Kramaric, a player for TSG Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, recorded 15 goals and six assists.
• Ante Budimir ended last season with 17 goals and 3 assists in 34 La Liga games for CA Osasuna.
• Mario Pasalic scored six goals and provided five assists in 38 Serie A games for Atalanta last season.
• Lovro Majer made 34 appearances for VfL Wolfsburg this past season, finishing with five goals and five assists in the Bundesliga.

Spain vs. Croatia Matchup Stats

• 38 goals were scored by Spain in the previous two years. Croatia gave up seven goals in contrast.
• In 12 games over the previous two years, Croatia scored 22 goals. Conversely, in 12 games, Spain gave up 10 goals.
• With a goal differential of +28, Spain was in positive territory.
• Croatia had a +15 goal differential after outscoring the opposition 22–7.