Croatia Vs Scotland

Scotland will make a challenging journey to Zagreb on Saturday as they seek to end their extended winless streak by taking on Croatia in their UEFA Nations League match. Steve Clarke's men have struggled in the competition so far, having lost both of their opening League A Group 1 fixtures. In contrast, Croatia, with three points on the board, remain hopeful of progressing to the knockout phase.

Match Preview

Croatia's Nations League campaign began with high hopes of improving upon their performance in the previous edition, where they reached the final but were defeated by Spain. Their quest to go a step further this season started with a 2-1 loss against Portugal, a result that was not entirely unexpected, given Portugal's strength and Croatia's transitional phase. Croatia had also underperformed in Euro 2024, exiting the tournament at the group stage. This underwhelming performance in Europe was a blow to a team accustomed to competing at the highest levels. However, Croatia quickly rebounded with a crucial win over Poland in their second Nations League fixture, giving their supporters renewed optimism.

The victory over Poland was sealed by a moment of brilliance from captain Luka Modric, whose stunning free-kick proved to be the only goal in a closely fought contest in Osijek. That goal not only secured three points for Croatia but also lifted them to second place in Group 1, putting them in a strong position to challenge for a spot in the knockout rounds.

Croatia's ambitions in this season’s Nations League are twofold: they want to secure silverware and re-establish their credentials as a European powerhouse. Head coach Zlatko Dalic has been tasked with gradually phasing out some of the squad’s veteran players while integrating fresh talent. The transition has not been without challenges, but Croatia’s blend of experience and youth offers hope. Modric, despite being in the twilight of his career, remains an influential figure, and his leadership will be crucial as the team looks to remain competitive in this evolving landscape.

Finishing in the top two of the group is essential for Croatia, as even second place guarantees a spot in the quarter-finals of the Nations League. Dalic's side will be aiming to keep themselves ahead of Poland and Scotland to maintain their pursuit of silverware. Croatia's recent form suggests they are well-placed to do so. They have won six of their last eight Nations League matches, a record that reflects their consistency in this competition. Moreover, their home form has been formidable, with three consecutive victories in all competitions without conceding a goal. The fortress-like Stadion Maksimir will be a significant advantage for Croatia as they prepare to face Scotland.

A Tough Task for Scotland

For Scotland, this weekend's clash in Zagreb represents a daunting challenge. Their last meeting with Croatia came during Euro 2020, where the Vatreni inflicted a painful 3-1 defeat on the Scots in Glasgow, a result that eliminated Scotland from the tournament. That loss still lingers in the memory of the Scottish players and fans alike, and they will be eager to exact some form of revenge. However, history does offer Scotland some encouragement, as they are one of the few teams to have avoided defeat on more than one occasion when playing in Croatia. They managed a 1-1 draw in a World Cup qualifier in October 2000 and famously won 1-0 in a 2013 World Cup qualifier, with Robert Snodgrass scoring the decisive goal. These rare positive results will provide Scotland with some hope as they prepare for a difficult encounter.

Current Scotland manager Steve Clarke would welcome any result that sees his team leave Zagreb with points. Scotland's form has been abysmal in recent months, with the team now enduring the longest winless streak in the nation’s football history. They have failed to win in their last eight competitive matches, a troubling run that includes disappointing results in both the Nations League and Euro 2024. Scotland’s sole victory in their last 14 outings came against the lowly Gibraltar in a friendly, a match that did little to alleviate concerns about the team’s lack of form and confidence.

The struggles have only intensified since Scotland earned promotion to League A of the Nations League. Their step up to the top tier has been fraught with difficulties, and their performance in Euro 2024, where they exited tamely in the group stage, was a reflection of their broader issues. Their Nations League campaign has followed a similarly disheartening trajectory, with two defeats from two matches in September. Yet, in both games, Scotland showed glimpses of promise, only to fall short when it mattered most.

In their opening Nations League match against Poland, Scotland battled back from 2-0 down to level the score at 2-2, only to concede a penalty deep into stoppage time, which allowed Poland to claim all three points. It was a cruel way to lose, especially after such a spirited comeback. The defeat to Portugal followed a similar pattern of frustration. Scotland took the lead through the in-form Scott McTominay, who has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise underperforming side. However, a late goal from Cristiano Ronaldo dashed their hopes of a point in Lisbon, with the Portuguese legend scoring in the 88th minute to seal a 3-2 victory.

These agonizing defeats have left Scotland at the bottom of Group 1, and their chances of avoiding relegation from League A are now hanging by a thread. Finishing in third place would require them to navigate a relegation playoff, while finishing last means automatic relegation. The odds are stacked against Clarke’s men, and the upcoming fixture in Croatia is just the start of a crucial doubleheader. After facing Croatia, Scotland will return home to Hampden Park to take on Portugal three days later. These two fixtures could well define Scotland’s Nations League fate.

Key Players and Tactical Battles

For Croatia, Luka Modric remains the linchpin of their team. The 38-year-old Real Madrid midfielder has defied age to continue performing at the highest level, and his leadership will be crucial against Scotland. Modric’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game, combined with his threat from set pieces, makes him Croatia’s most dangerous player. Alongside him, players such as Marcelo Brozovic and Mateo Kovacic will look to control the midfield battle, where Croatia will aim to dominate possession and starve Scotland of opportunities.

Scotland, meanwhile, will be relying heavily on Scott McTominay, who has emerged as their standout performer in recent matches. The Manchester United midfielder has developed a knack for scoring important goals for his country and will need to be at his best if Scotland are to pull off a shock result. Defensively, Scotland will need to be organized and disciplined, particularly in dealing with Croatia’s attacking threat. The partnership of Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry in central defense will be tested, while the full-backs must also be vigilant in preventing Croatia’s wide players from delivering dangerous crosses into the box.

Steve Clarke’s tactical approach will likely be pragmatic, with Scotland looking to remain compact and frustrate Croatia for long periods. Clarke may opt for a 5-3-2 formation, providing extra defensive cover while allowing McTominay to push forward and support the attack when possible. Scotland’s chances of success may hinge on their ability to make the most of set-piece opportunities, an area where they have historically been strong.

What’s at Stake

This match is vital for both teams, albeit for different reasons. Croatia are looking to solidify their position in the group and maintain their pursuit of silverware, while Scotland are fighting for survival in League A. A win for Croatia would strengthen their grip on second place, keeping them in contention for a quarter-final berth. For Scotland, a positive result would offer a glimmer of hope in their battle against relegation. However, given the form and quality of the two teams, Croatia will enter the match as firm favorites.

As the Nations League campaign progresses, every point becomes crucial, and both teams will be acutely aware of the stakes involved. Croatia will be confident of continuing their impressive home form, while Scotland will need to summon all their resilience and determination to defy the odds. With the shadow of relegation looming, Steve Clarke’s men must find a way to turn their fortunes around, starting with this daunting trip to Zagreb.