Sabasports Match Preview
Euro 2024: Croatia vs Albania
Kickoff Time: 2024-06-19 21:00 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/Lisi Niesner
In the first round of the European Championship, Croatia were defeated by Spain 0-3. They appeared somewhat outdated. Croatia’s midfielders have strong passing and control abilities, but they are too old and weak in defense. Both goals conceded were through the middle. In this European Championship, many teams are facing such challenges, and Croatia have managed it the worst. However, Croatia’s most enviable asset is their experienced veterans. Every position in the team has a veteran with world-class skill or major competition experience. Ivan Perisic is up front, Luka Modric and Marcelo Brozovic are in the midfield, and Josko Gvardiol is in defense. This veteran presence has been crucial in maintaining their morale. Despite Croatia’s midfield and frontline weaknesses, their defensive lineup remains strong, which is a key factor in their success.
Despite losing 1-2 to Italy in the first game, Albania made a good impression. Looking at Albania’s roster, they not only have experienced players like Elseid Hysaj, Berat Djimsiti, and Etrit Berisha, but also young talents like Kristjan Asllani and Armando Broja. Under Sylvinho’s leadership, Albania have abandoned their previously cautious offensive approach and now aims to create more attacking opportunities through active forward pressing. When attacking, Albania’s 4-2-3-1 formation quickly shifts to a 2-2-2-4 formation. Their wing play provides more passing routes and creates numerical advantages, putting pressure on the opponent’s defense. Although Albania have not shown particularly strong offensive capabilities, they have found a balance between attack and defense.
Both teams are in the “Group of Death.” To create a miracle amid a group of powerful opponents, they will need not only strength and fighting spirit but also experience and luck. Overall, Croatia are clearly a level above Albania and have much more competition experiences. Additionally, Croatia’s tactical execution is quite high, something Albania lack. Considering all factors, the experienced Croatia are expected to secure all three points in this match.
Croatia’s Last 5 Games: LWWWD
24-06-16 Spain 3-0 Croatia
24-06-09 Portugal 1-2 Croatia
24-06-04 Croatia 3-0 North Macedonia
24-03-27 Egypt 2-4 Croatia
24-03-24 Tunisia 0-0 Croatia (PEN 4-5)
Albania’s Last 5 Games: LWWLL
24-06-16 Italy 2-1 Albania
24-06-08 Albania 3-1 Azerbaijan
24-06-04 Albania 3-0 Liechtenstein
24-03-26 Sweden 1-0 Albania
24-03-23 Albania 0-3 Chile
Head To Head Record:
None
Prediction: Croatia to win