Croatia face Portugal in a pivotal UEFA Nations League clash at Stadion Poljud on Monday evening. While Portugal has already secured a top spot in the group and a place in the quarter-finals, Croatia need at least a point to guarantee their own qualification. Portugal head into the match with a strong record, having won four of their five games, including a 5-1 victory over Poland, with Cristiano Ronaldo continuing to impress. However, with their qualification already confirmed, coach Roberto Martinez is expected to rotate his squad, bringing in fresh faces.
Croatia, who are in second place with seven points, have had a mixed campaign and are coming off a disappointing loss to Scotland. Coach Zlatko Dalic’s side will need to bounce back and secure at least a draw to ensure they reach the knockout stages. They will be without Petar Sucic, who is suspended, but welcome back Ante Budimir and goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic from suspension.
Portugal’s key players like Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes may be rested, while Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo could feature. Croatia will rely on their experienced midfield duo Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic, as well as striker Andrej Kramaric, to drive them to a crucial result. With both teams looking to finish their Nations League campaign on a high, the match promises to be a tense and exciting encounter.
