Croatia vs Italy UEFA EURO 2024 Preview and Tips

Here are our Euro 2024 predictions for Croatia vs Italy. Italy were edged out by Spain in their second group stage game, but they still hold all the aces against Croatia in their third and final group game. Avoid defeat and Italy will advance as runners-up, but a win for Croatia could eliminate the Azzurri. Italy will be unable to reach the round of 16 if they lose and Albania beat Spain.

Croatia vs Italy Preview

Italy did the business in their opening group game with Albania, but came unstuck against the impressive Spaniards. While Spain are through as group winners, there’s set to be a dogfight between the other three teams for potentially two more places in the round of 16. Historically, Croatia has been a tough opponent for Italy. The two teams first met in 1942, but since then, Italy have failed to secure another victory. If Italy can finish as runners-up, they will be in the opposite side of the draw to Germany, Spain and Portugal and face Switzerland, so huge incentive.

Croatia will be through to the round of 16 as group runners-up if they beat Italy and Albania do not beat Spain. Italy have conceded 28 shots across their opening two games (14 per game), yet we can back over 12.5 Croatia shots. Of course, if Croatia score early on, it changes the dynamic of the game but given they have only scored 15 goals in their last 10 matches across group stage and qualification it is a safe prediction.

Croatia vs Italy Team news

Ivan Perisic likely to start in an advanced position down the left. Mario Pasalic and Luka Susic are the primary contenders to replace Brozovic in midfield. Italy, under Luciano Spalletti, have maintained consistency in their lineup, fielding the same starting XI in both matches so far but it’d be a surprise to see Spalletti go into Monday’s game with the same starting XI and there should be some changes up top.

Croatia vs Italy Tips

Post Match–

Croatia(Modrić 55′)1-1(Zaccagni 90+8′) Italy