Portugal vs Croatia prediction and betting tips - September 5, 2024
On Thursday, September 5, Portugal and Croatia will face off in the first round of UEFA Nations League Division A. The match is scheduled to start at 20:45 Central European Time. Dailysports analysts have prepared a forecast for this game.
Portugal
Portugal was the inaugural champion of the UEFA Nations League, winning the title in 2019 by defeating the Netherlands 1-0 in the final. Although they haven't returned to the Final Four since, they came close in the last edition. Portugal competed in a group with Spain, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic, finishing with ten points, just one point behind Spain. Following that, Portugal participated in both the World Cup and the European Championship.
At Euro 2024, they reached the quarterfinals, where they lost to France in a penalty shootout. For the September Nations League matches, the Portuguese coaching staff has called up many stars, including the legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Currently, Portugal is ranked 8th in the FIFA rankings.
Croatia
In the previous UEFA Nations League, Croatia advanced to the Final Four and reached the final, where they faced Spain. The match went to a penalty shootout, where Spain emerged victorious. However, Croatia's performance at the Euro 2024 was disappointing. They were placed in a challenging group with Spain, Italy, and Albania. Croatia failed to win a match, drawing twice and earning just two points, leading to their early exit from the tournament.
For the September Nations League games, Croatia's coach has called up many top players, including the legendary midfielder Luka Modrić, who will once again face Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch. In the FIFA rankings, Croatia has dropped a few positions and is now 12th.
Interesting Facts and Head-to-Head History
- Portugal and Croatia last played each other in June, with Croatia winning 2-1.
- Portugal has won 8 of their last 11 matches and is unbeaten at home in their last 6 games.
Portugal vs Croatia prediction
Considering Portugal's strong home record and their status as favorites for this match, I would bet on a Portugal victory. They have a better squad and are playing at home. The odds for this result are 1.55.
