Croatia have been one of the most consistent teams in Europe over the past year. Their last defeat was against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup semi-finals. In the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League, they lost only their opening match against Austria.
Croatia's stability was built on a core of great players such as Modric, Brozovic, Perisic and Kramaric. Croatia's most notable absence in the final was centre-back Gvardiol. However, Vida filled in well for his junior in the semi-final against the Netherlands.
Croatia and Spain are both hungry for major titles after years of nothing.
On the other hand, the Spanish team is not as stable as Croatia. In the past year, Spain received 5 defeats in a total of 14 matches. However, Spain played well in the UEFA Nations League. They only lost to Switzerland in the group stage.
In addition, the Spanish team is changing its playing style under coach De la Fuente. Not applying the extreme attacking philosophy like Luis Enrique, De la Fuente allows Spain to play more flexibly. Therefore, Spain, despite not having the best force in the semi-finals, still defeated Italy 2-1 to enter this final match.
The history of confrontation is leaning towards the team from the land of bullfighting. They won 5, drew 1 and lost 3. In the last 3 times, Spain also won 2.
Spain have not won a major trophy since winning Euro 2012. They last reached the final of the 2020/21 UEFA Nations League. However, they suffered a convincing defeat against France. Therefore, this is a good opportunity for Spain to quench their thirst for trophies.
But it certainly won't be easy for them. Croatia have never won a major title in their history. The Southern European team will be determined to bring home a title, not only to confirm their position, but also to mark a golden generation of Modric and Perisic.
Expected lineup Croatia vs Spain
Croatia: Livakovic; Juranovic, Vida, Sutalo, Perisic; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Pasalic, Kramaric, Ivanusec
Spain: Simon; Navas, Le Normand, Laporte, Alba; Merino, Rodri; Asensio, Gavi, Pino; Morata
Prediction: Croatia 2-1 Spain
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