Croatia and Albania meets today in a match that sees both teams trying to catch up in Group B.
After losing their first Euro 2024 matches last weekend, both teams are looking to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the tournament’s knockout stage.
A win for them today places them in a position to advance to the next stage of the competition.
Croatia has a lot of experience in the Euros, but this is only Albania’s second appearance since gaining independence, both in the last three editions.
Despite a strong start with Nedim Bajrami’s quick goal against Italy, Albania ended up losing 2-1, making it their third loss in four major finals matches.
Even though Albania had a solid unbeaten streak in competitive matches, their recent defeat to Italy was a setback.
The upcoming match against Spain will be crucial for their chances of advancing in Euro 2024. It’s going to be a tough road ahead for the Eagles but anything is possible in football.
Zlatko Dalic is considering some changes to the lineup for Croatia’s match against Spain.
Josko Gvardiol might return to central defense, and Borna Sosa could come in at left-back. There’s also a possibility of seeing either Luka Sucic or Mario Pasalic in midfield instead of Marcelo Brozovic.
Luka Modric was quite impactful in the last match, making the most line-breaking passes, and he’s expected to play a key role once again. The front three is likely to remain unchanged, especially with Ivan Perisic not fully fit yet.
Unfortunately, Nikola Vlasic had to leave the camp due to an injury, and he’ll miss the rest of the tournament.
On the other hand, it’s good news that Jasir Asani is fit to play for Albania after initially being a doubt because of an ankle issue.
The match will commence at exactly 1:00pm local time.
Possible lineups :
Croatia possible starting lineup:
Livakovic, Stanisic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa, Modric, Sucic, Kovacic,Majer, Budimir, Kramaric
Albania possible starting lineup:
Strakosha,Hysaj, Ismajli, Djimsiti, Mitaj, Asllani, Ramadani,Laci, Bajrami, Asani; Broja