Croatia vs Italy Prediction: Expert Analysis and Match Preview
Croatia and Italy are set to face off in a pivotal Group B match on Monday evening at Leipzig Stadion.
This match is pivotal for both teams, each facing different challenges and stakes.
Italy’s Position and Potential Troubles
Italy enters the tie in a slightly better position after securing a win over Albania on the opening day. However, a potential defeat here could plunge them into significant trouble.
Despite their initial victory, Italy’s performance has been less than impressive. They managed only four shots in their recent 0-1 defeat to Spain.
Croatia’s Unbeaten Streak and Recent Form
Croatia remains unbeaten in their last eight head-to-head games with Italy. They entered the tournament with five wins and a draw from their last six matches across competitions.
However, with just one point from their opening two games at Euro 2024, Croatia has been one of the biggest disappointments so far.
The back-to-back World Cup semi-finalists have played below their usual standard, conceding a last-minute equalizer against Albania to remain at the bottom of Group B standings.
Croatia vs Italy: Head-to-Head Encounters
Six of the previous seven head-to-head matches between these rivals ended with fewer than three goals scored. This trend suggests a tight and cautious approach from both sides in their upcoming clash.
Italy’s Struggles
Italy did beat Albania in the first round but failed to impress overall. The Azzurri were overwhelmed by Spain, despite only losing 0-1 on Thursday night.
Italy’s lack of offensive prowess has been a concern, registering only four shots in their defeat to Spain.
Croatia vs Italy: Predicted Lineups and Team News
Italy’s Strategy
Luciano Spalletti made early changes in the second round match against Spain, introducing Bryan Cristante and Andrea Cambiaso at half-time. It’s likely he will stick with the same starting XI against Croatia.
Italy (4-5-1): Donnarumma – Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Dimarco – Barella, Jorginho, Frattessi, Pellegrini, Chiesa – Scamacca
Croatia’s Adjustments
Zlatko Dalic is expected to abandon the experiment with Ivan Perisic at left-back, which could have been disastrous against Italy.
Croatia (4-3-3): Livakovic – Juranovic, Sutalo, Pongrancic, Gvardiol – Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic – Majer, Petkovic, Kramaric
Croatia vs Italy: Predictions and Stakes
Croatia’s Path to Victory
Both Croatia and Italy are currently experiencing rough patches. However, Croatia’s potential for a turnaround is higher given their unbeaten streak against Italy and recent form.
The Croats need a victory to avoid elimination, while Italy could advance even with a loss. Croatia’s numerous missed chances in their previous matches suggest they are capable of a strong performance.
Tight and Nervous Affair Expected
Given the high stakes, a tight and nervous affair is expected in Leipzig. Italy’s offensive struggles, combined with the history of low-scoring encounters between these teams, make a low-scoring game likely.
The Under 2.5 goals pick at 1.90 odds seems a prudent bet under these circumstances.
