Euro Cup 2024: Spain vs. Croatia Match Preview, Odds, and Predictions

Soccer enthusiasts across Berlin are gearing up for a thrilling match as Spain prepares to take on Croatia on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The game will kick off at 4:00 PM UTC at the Berlin Stadium, with a crowd of up to 74,649 fans expected to witness the action live.

Key Stats & Insights

  • Spain has netted 2 or more goals in 8 of their last 10 games.
  • Over 2.5 goals have been scored in 4 of Spain’s last 5 matches.
  • Croatia has scored 2 or more goals in 4 of their last 5 games.
  • Over 2.5 goals have been recorded in 4 of Croatia’s last 5 matches.
  • Spain has dominated possession in their last 136 competitive games, a streak going back to their Euro 2008 final victory over Germany.
  • Three of the last five clashes between Spain and Croatia have seen at least five goals, including a 5-3 extra-time win for Spain at Euro 2020, the second-highest scoring game in Euros history.

Team Form and Performance

Spain – Last 10 Competitive Games

Spain has been on an impressive run with 9 wins and just 1 loss. They average 3.2 goals per game from 6.2 shots on target and 17.8 attempts. Spain enjoys 67.1% possession and wins 6.8 corners per game, while their opponents average 1.0 goals from 2.1 shots on target and 5.7 attempts.

Key players: Joselu (5 goals), Alvaro Morata (4 goals), Ferran Torres (3 goals), Nico Williams (3 assists), and goalkeeper Unai Simon (3 clean sheets).

Croatia – Last 10 Competitive Games

Croatia has secured 6 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw. They average 2.1 goals per game from 14.3 attempts and 6.6 shots on target. With 61.4% possession, they earn 5.9 corners per match and concede 1.1 goals from 8.4 attempts and 2.9 shots on target.

Key players: Andrej Kramaric (5 goals), Mario Pasalic (3 goals), Bruno Petkovic (3 goals), Luka Ivanusec, Ivan Perisic, and Mario Pasalic (2 assists each), and goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic (4 clean sheets).

Head-to-Head Records

Spain and Croatia are no strangers to each other, having met in the last four Euros. Spain has won two of their last three encounters, including a 5-3 extra-time win at Euro 2020 and a 1-0 victory at Euro 2012, while Croatia won 2-1 at Euro 2016. Historically, their matches are high-scoring affairs, promising an exciting game.

Player Form and Availability

Spain

Head Coach: Luis de la Fuente

Key players likely to feature include:

  • Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
  • Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Nacho, Robin Le Normand
  • Midfielders: Pedri, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Nico Williams
  • Forwards: Jesus Navas, Alvaro Morata, Lamine Yamal

Croatia

Head Coach: Zlatko Dalic

Croatia’s potential starting lineup includes:

  • Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
  • Defenders: Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josko Gvardiol, Josip Sutalo
  • Midfielders: Lovro Majer, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic
  • Forwards: Andrej Kramaric, Ante Budimir

Market Analysis (Odds)

The latest betting odds indicate a competitive match. Spain is favored at 1.95 for a win, with a draw at 3.5, and a Croatia victory at 4. Odds suggest a low-scoring game, with Under 2.5 Goals being the most likely outcome. Both Teams to Score is evenly priced at 1.83 for both Yes and No.

Predictions

With both teams boasting strong attacking talents, goals are expected. Spain’s consistent possession dominance and recent form suggest they might edge out Croatia, but it won’t be easy. A close match is anticipated, with a narrow victory for Spain, possibly 1-0 or 2-1, as they continue to control the game with their possession-based play.

This comprehensive preview covers all aspects of the upcoming match, from team form and player performance to betting odds and predictions, helping fans and bettors alike prepare for the action.