Montenegro vs Croatia prediction, H2H and probable lineups - November 17, 2025
One of the final round fixtures in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup will take place on Monday at the City Stadium in Podgorica, where Montenegro will host Croatia. We’re offering a bet on the outcome of this clash with high chances of success.
Match preview
Montenegro have had a disappointing qualifying campaign, finishing without a chance of progressing from their group. The team has collected 9 points from seven matches but has shown defensive frailties, conceding 14 goals—the worst goal difference among all top-3 contenders. A recent come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Gibraltar was a rare bright spot that ended their losing streak.
At home, Montenegro look slightly more confident, having won two out of three matches at the Podgorica stadium. Nevertheless, overall form remains unstable—four defeats in their last five qualifiers dashed any playoff hopes. This final match is more an opportunity to exit the tournament with dignity than a genuine sporting challenge to the group favorites.
Croatia have already secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup, remaining the dominant force in their group. With six wins and a draw, Dalic’s team has amassed 19 points and posted an outstanding goal difference—23 scored and just 2 conceded. They became the 30th team to qualify for the tournament and will be making their seventh appearance at the World Cup.
Even with qualification sealed, Croatia continue to operate with full focus. In the previous round, they confidently beat the Faroe Islands 3-1, once again underlining their structure and class. Their away record is also impressive: two wins and a draw from three road games. Croatia lead all key metrics and remain one of the most organized national sides in Europe.
Probable lineups
- Montenegro: Nikic, Marusic, Tuči, Sipcic, Perovic, Jankovic, Adzic, Bulatovic, Vukotic, Osmajic, Krstovic
- Croatia: Livakovic; Gvardiol, Vuskovic, Stanisic; Perisic, Marco Pasalic, Modric, Mario Pasalic, Sucic; Kramaric, Musa
Match facts and head-to-head
- Croatia won the first encounter 4-0
- Montenegro have lost four of their last five qualifiers
- Croatia have conceded just two goals in seven matches and remain unbeaten
Prediction
Croatia are simply on another level in every department—from defensive organization to attacking firepower. Montenegro, despite occasional flashes, lack consistency, especially against top-tier opponents. The visitors control matches with authority even when motivation is low, and this game is unlikely to be an exception.
