Match Details
- Kick-off: 7:45pm BST
- Venue: Stadion Puljud, Split
Croatia enters this UEFA Nations League fixture seeking a vital response under manager Slaven Bilić following a challenging period. The team is looking to bounce back after a difficult defeat against England. The squad faces several forced adjustments, particularly in defense, as centre-back Martin Erlić remains sidelined. These absences necessitate a reshuffle in the backline, where Josip Šutalo is expected to return to the starting rotation to shore up the defense.
Tactical changes are also anticipated further up the pitch to inject fresh energy into the side. Midfielder Nikola Vlašić is a key candidate for rotation, while captain Luka Modrić is expected to return to the starting lineup to provide essential leadership and creativity in the midfield engine room. Read Also – Bundesliga Predictions Today – Expert Tips & Stats.
Spain Team News and Form
World champions Spain arrive in Split in spectacular, record-breaking form. Under Luis de la Fuente, the team is currently riding a monumental 41-game unbeaten streak across all competitions. Their performance in Group A3 has been flawless, securing a perfect nine points from their opening three matches. Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube.
The Spanish side continues to showcase impressive depth despite minor setbacks. Attacker Ferran Torres has withdrawn from the camp following a recent blow, prompting the call-up of Real Madrid’s 21-year-old forward Carlos EspÃ, who earns his maiden senior recognition. Spain’s roster depth allows for significant rotation; regulars such as Mikel Merino, Pau CubarsÃ, and Marc Cucurella are expected to feature prominently. Both of whom departed earlier in the window due to fitness concerns, torres joins forward Nico Williams and left-back Alejandro Grimaldo on the sidelines.
Match Context and Recent Form
Croatia’s campaign has been turbulent. Although they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Czechia to open the international window, their form has since plummeted. The team suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat away to Spain, followed immediately by a devastating 7-0 loss to England. In contrast, Spain’s recent dominant stretch includes a 3-2 victory over England at Wembley, their 4-1 win over Croatia in Seville, and a comfortable 3-1 triumph against Czechia. Dani Olmo explains turning down Croatia to pursue Spain dream OffsAIde.
Predicted Starting Lineups
- Croatia: Livakovic; Smolcic, Sutalo, Vuskovic, Gvardiol; Modric, Kovacic; Ivanovic, Mario Pasalic, Vlasic; Matanovic
- Spain: Simon; Fresneda, Cubarsi, Huijsen, Cucurella; Lopez, Zubimendi, Pedri; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Munoz
Viewing Information
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Additional Developments
In other football news, an unfortunate mistake by goalkeeper Bento recently prevented Al-Nassr from securing the Saudi League title, with the error delaying Cristiano Ronaldo’s pursuit of his first trophy in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, in the Premier League, the league issued a formal statement explaining why Tottenham’s James Maddison was denied a penalty against Leeds during his recent return from injury.
