Croatia FC and Albania FC are aiming for a win in this important match, as they can no longer afford to lose their next match. Both Croatia and Albania had a rough start in Euro 2024, as they both lost their opening match. Croatia had a 3-0 loss against Spain during their opener, which makes this match a crucial one. Since this is a must-win game for Croatia, they need to gather themselves together to win this match. On the other hand, Albania also suffered a 3-0 loss against Italy, making this game also a crucial one for them. Albania is also not doing well, and are needing to improve their form, if they want a chance for the next round. The meeting between these two teams is on June 19, 2024, at 9:00 PM (GMT+8).
Croatia FC
Croatia, aiming to win the European Championship, started their seventh appearance with a 3-0 defeat to Spain in Berlin. The team trailed by three before the break, and a missed penalty from Bruno Petkovic further exacerbated the situation. Head coach Zlatko Dalic’s team has failed to score in Euro 2024’s ‘Group of Death’, with three defeats in their last five matches and defeats by Turkey and Wales in qualifying. Croatia must arrest a decline of three defeats in their last five matches and face Albania for the first time in senior international football. They have been eliminated at the first knockout stage in their last two Euros, and achieving a spot in the final group fixture will be a challenge.
Zlatko Dalic may make changes to Croatia’s XI following a sluggish start to the finals, including a return to central defence for Manchester City star Josko Gvardiol, with Borna Sosa coming in at left-back. Marcelo Brozovic may be dropped, with Luka Sucic or Mario Pasalic potentially making an impact.
Albania FC
Albania’s second appearance at the Euros since gaining independence is this summer, following a 2-1 loss to Italy in UEFA’s main event. Nedim Bajrami scored the quickest goal in European Championship history, but the Azzurri scored twice by the 16th minute. Substitute Rey Manaj nearly scored a late leveller in Dortmund, but Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma denied it. Albania now has lost three of their four matches at major finals. This was the first competitive defeat since March 2023, ending a seven-game unbeaten streak in such matches. The Euro 2024 draw was not kind. Albania must avoid an early exit by meeting Spain in a potentially decisive final fixture next week.
Croatian forward Jasir Asani is doubtful due to an ankle problem, causing Arber Hoxha to be promoted from the bench. Rey Manaj or Chelsea’s Armando Broja may lead the Albanian attack, with Nedim Bajrami providing support. Sokol Cikalleshi was omitted due to international retirement.
Prediction:
Croatia FC (2.0)
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