SPAIN and Croatia are prepared for a difficult debut at Euro 2024, which will feature two of the tournament’s favorites later today.
The two European giants face each other in a huge clash at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
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Furia Roja and the Croatians were drawn into a tough group that also includes favorites Italy and tiny Albania.
And whoever wins this match could set the tone for the leadership of Group B.
Spain are one of the main contenders to win the trophy next month, following consecutive triumphs in 2008 and 2012.
The Spanish team also reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020.
Croatia, on the other hand, has been conquering football since the 2018 World Cup, when they reached the final.
The Croatians also finished third at the 2022 World Cup, but only reached the round of 16 at Euro 2020 and 2016.
Both teams will be able to count on a number of stars in their quest for glory in Germany.
And everyone intends to leave everything on the field in what promises to be a fun encounter.
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Road to the Euro
Spain easily reached the finals of Euro 2024 by leading Group A undefeated, with seven victories along the way.
Furia Roja defeated runners-up Scotland, Norway, Georgia and Cyprus.
Croatia, on the other hand, finished second in Group D, behind leaders Turkey.
The Croatians overcame Wales, Armenia and Latvia by winning five of their eight games, of which they lost two.
Team News
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente may have to wait for the form of Barcelona star Pedri, who has battled injury throughout the season.
De La Fuente, however, has several Premier League stars to choose from, including Brentford’s David Raya, who was on loan at Arsenal, Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella and Manchester City’s Rodri.
Furia Roja will also be able to count on Unai Simon from Athletic Bilbao, his teammate Nico Williams, Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Alvaro Morata from Atlético de Madrid, Ferran Torres from Barcelona, his teammate Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo, from RB Leipzig.
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic, on the other hand, will have left Tottenham star Ivan Perisic back in action after spending last season on the sidelines with a knee injury.
Dalic will also have Fenerbahçe’s Dominik Livakovic, City’s Josko Gvardiol, his teammate Mateo Kovacic and, of course, Real Madrid legend Luka Modric at his disposal.
Those to watch
Spain will need Rodri to emulate Manchester City’s form during Euro 2024.
The midfield maestro excelled once again for City and helped them to a record fourth successive Premier League title.
The 27-year-old has scored nine goals and 14 assists in 50 appearances for the Citizens, who have lost just one game in 90 minutes all season with the Spaniard in the starting line-up.
Croatia will look up to their national hero, Luka Modric, who has been instrumental in the last two World Cup campaigns.
Real Madrid legend Modric is now 38 years old but is ready for a new contract at the Santiago Bernabéu and will wear the armband for his country to complete his 175 caps.
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Head to head
Spain and Croatia have faced each other a total of 10 times in all competitions.
The Spanish won the majority of their six games, compared to the Croatians’ three victories.
In fact, Furia Roja have won six of their last nine games, of which they have lost two.
The two teams have met three times at the Euros, with Spain winning twice in 2012 and 2020, while Croatia emerged victorious in 2016.
SunSport Prediction
Spain are favorites against Croatia’s aging golden generation, but not by much. This could be a tight clash between the two tournament favorites.
Prediction: 1-0
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When is Spain vs Croatia?
- Spain’s clash with Croatia will take place on Saturday, June 15.
- The game will start at 5pm BST.
- The Olympiastadion in the German capital, Berlin, will host the match.
What channel is it on and can it be streamed live?
Spain v Croatia will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV 1 HD in the UK.
You can live stream all the action from the ITV X app, which is available to download onto your phone or tablet.
Can I watch for FREE?
Yes, you can watch all the action for free on ITV 1 as long as you have a valid TV license.
Chances
- Spain – 3/4
- Draw – 10/27
- Croatia – 15/4
*Odds courtesy of William Colina and correct at the time of publication.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
