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As the Euro 2024 group stage progresses, Group B offers a thrilling encounter between Croatia and Albania, both teams fighting to stay alive in the competition. This match, set to take place in Hamburg on Wednesday afternoon, is crucial for both sides, as a loss could severely dent their hopes of advancing to the knockout phase. Let's delve into the dynamics of this match and what fans can expect.
Match Preview
Croatia, a team with a rich history in European Championships, entered Euro 2024 with high expectations. However, their campaign got off to a disastrous start with a 3-0 defeat to Spain in Berlin. This loss not only dampened their spirits but also highlighted some critical issues within the team. Despite having 16 shots and an expected goals (xG) tally of 2.38, Croatia failed to find the back of the net, a stark contrast to Spain's clinical performance.
Croatia's Challenges and Prospects
Head coach Zlatko Dalic, the mastermind behind Croatia's recent success in major tournaments, now faces the challenge of rejuvenating his squad. The defeat to Spain marked Croatia's third loss in their last five competitive matches, a worrying trend for a team that had only suffered three defeats in their previous 29 games.
Croatia's task is made more daunting by the fact that they have not lost consecutive games in the same finals since Euro 1996. With reigning champions Italy waiting in their final group fixture, the Vatreni cannot afford to drop points against Albania. The return of Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol to central defense and potential changes in midfield, including the possible inclusion of Luka Sucic or Mario Pasalic, could be key to turning their fortunes around.
Luka Modric, despite his age, continues to be an integral part of the team. His ability to make line-breaking passes, as evidenced by his performance against Spain, will be crucial. However, the absence of Nikola Vlasic due to injury and the potential benching of Marcelo Brozovic add layers of complexity to Dalic's selection headache.
Albania's Journey and Hopes
Albania, making only their second appearance in the European Championship since gaining independence, also started their Euro 2024 campaign on a sour note with a 2-1 loss to Italy. Despite a stunning opener by Nedim Bajrami – the quickest goal in European Championship history at just 23 seconds – Albania could not hold off the Italians, who scored twice within the first 16 minutes.
Sylvinho, Albania's head coach, saw his team’s seven-game unbeaten streak in competitive matches come to an end. The Eagles now face an uphill battle to stay in contention, needing at least a point against Croatia to keep their hopes alive. With a final group match against Spain, the stakes are incredibly high.
Sylvinho might opt to start either Rey Manaj or Chelsea's Armando Broja in attack, supported by the ever-dangerous Bajrami. Albania will need their defense, bolstered by players like Elseid Hysaj, to be at their best to withstand Croatia's offensive threats.
Key Players to Watch
Croatia
Luka Modric: The Croatian captain remains pivotal to his team's fortunes. His vision, passing accuracy, and leadership on the field are unmatched. Modric's ability to control the midfield and create opportunities will be essential if Croatia are to bounce back from their opening defeat.
Josko Gvardiol: The Manchester City defender's return to the starting lineup could provide the stability Croatia needs at the back. His presence is crucial in a match where defensive solidity will be as important as attacking prowess.
Albania
Nedim Bajrami: The Sassuolo midfielder has been in excellent form, contributing significantly to Albania's attacking play. His goal against Italy showcased his ability to deliver in crucial moments. Bajrami's creativity and goal-scoring potential make him a key player for Albania.
Armando Broja: The Chelsea forward's physical presence and finishing ability could be decisive. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, Broja's contribution will be vital in breaking down Croatia's defense.
Tactical Battle
Croatia's Approach
Croatia will likely dominate possession, looking to control the game through their experienced midfield. Modric's role in distributing the ball and linking up play will be central to their strategy. They will need to convert their chances, something they failed to do against Spain despite creating numerous opportunities.
Defensively, the inclusion of Gvardiol should add solidity. Croatia will have to be wary of Albania's quick counter-attacks, particularly the threat posed by Bajrami.
Albania's Strategy
Albania will focus on a disciplined defensive setup, aiming to frustrate Croatia and hit them on the break. Sylvinho's side will need to stay compact, minimizing space for Modric and Co. to operate. Quick transitions from defense to attack will be their primary weapon, with Bajrami's creativity and the physical presence of Broja or Manaj up front being crucial.
Set-pieces could also be a significant factor, as Albania will look to capitalize on any opportunities to put pressure on the Croatian defense.
Potential Lineups
Croatia (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
- Defenders: Josip Juranovic, Josko Gvardiol, Domagoj Vida, Borna Sosa
- Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Mario Pasalic
- Forwards: Nikola Vlasic, Andrej Kramaric, Ivan Perisic (if fit)
Albania (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Etrit Berisha
- Defenders: Elseid Hysaj, Berat Djimsiti, Ardian Ismajli, Ermir Lenjani
- Midfielders: Keidi Bare, Ylber Ramadani
- Attacking Midfielders: Nedim Bajrami, Qazim Laçi, Myrto Uzuni
- Forward: Armando Broja
Predictions and Final Thoughts
This match promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams aware that a loss could spell the end of their Euro 2024 dreams. Croatia, with their wealth of experience and quality in midfield, will be favorites, but Albania’s resilience and potential for quick, decisive attacks make them a formidable opponent.
A lot will depend on how Croatia's defense holds up against Albania's counter-attacks and whether Modric can orchestrate a winning performance from midfield. For Albania, the key will be in their defensive discipline and ability to take their chances when they come.
Prediction: Croatia 2-1 Albania
Croatia's experience and individual quality might just give them the edge, but Albania will undoubtedly put up a strong fight. A narrow win for Croatia seems the most likely outcome, keeping them in contention for a place in the knockout stages while leaving Albania with a mountain to climb in their final group game against Spain.
As the teams prepare for this crucial clash, fans can expect a match filled with intensity, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance. Both teams have everything to play for, and this encounter in Hamburg could be one of the highlights of the Euro 2024 group stage.
