The Daily Star Ireland
Croatia and Portugal are set to face off in a highly anticipated Nations League match on Monday. Fans can expect an intense encounter as both teams bring contrasting strengths to the field.
Croatia
Croatia enters the match following a thrilling 3-3 draw against Poland in their last Nations League game. With 52% possession, Croatia registered 15 shots, eight of which were on target. Goals from Borna Sosa, Petar Sučić, and Martin Baturina highlighted their attacking capabilities. However, Croatia’s defense remains a concern, having conceded in five of their last six games despite scoring in all of them.
Portugal
Portugal comes into this game after a goalless draw with Scotland. Dominating possession with 70%, Portugal created 14 shots but only managed three on target. Scotland, by comparison, registered four attempts, with two on target. Portugal’s defensive record has been impressive, conceding just three goals in their last six matches while scoring seven. Whether they can maintain this defensive solidity against Croatia’s attacking threat will be key.
Head-to-Head Record
Portugal has historically performed better in this matchup, winning four of their six encounters since 2016, while Croatia has secured just one victory, with one game ending in a draw. These matches have produced 19 goals, with Portugal scoring 12 and Croatia 7, averaging 3.17 goals per game.
Their most recent meeting took place on September 5, 2024, in the Nations League, where Portugal claimed a 2-1 win. Diogo Dalot and Cristiano Ronaldo scored for Portugal, with Dalot also contributing an own goal. Croatia had 13 shots, four of which were on target, while Portugal recorded 15 attempts with six on target.
Team News
Both squads are at full strength for this fixture. Croatia, under Zlatko Dalić, and Portugal, led by Roberto Martínez, have no injury concerns, ensuring their strongest lineups will be available.
Prediction
The match is expected to be closely fought, but Portugal’s defensive organization could be the deciding factor. A narrow 1-0 win for Portugal is predicted, with more than 1.5 goals likely in what promises to be a competitive game.
