Luis de la Fuente has a promising group of young talents, and Pedri is poised to make an early impression.
In Summary:
- Spain, three-time European Championship winners, face Croatia, whom they ousted in the last Euros.
- Key players to watch include Spain’s Pedri and Croatia’s seasoned midfield trio.
Spain and Croatia renew their European Championship rivalry as they kick off their Group B campaign in Berlin.
Both teams have a history of close encounters, having met in the last three Euros, each securing a one-goal victory and a 90-minute draw three years ago, which Spain eventually won in extra time.
Team News:
If Aymeric Laporte is unavailable due to a muscle injury, Nacho is expected to join Robin Le Normand in Spain’s central defense.
Pedri is anticipated to play in the No.10 role behind Alvaro Morata, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams likely occupying the flanks.
For Croatia, midfielder Nikola Vlasic has resumed training following an injury. Coach Zlatko Dalic has experimented with Josko Gvardiol at left-back, a position he has played for Manchester City, but is expected to stick with a 4-3-3 formation to maintain the strong midfield trio of Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, and Mateo Kovacic.
The Stats:
The last two encounters between Croatia and Spain ended in draws at 90 minutes. Spain have been prolific in front of goal, netting 13 times in their last three internationals and scoring at least three goals in five of their last six matches. Conversely, Croatia are unbeaten in six games, conceding only three goals in that span.
Spain’s opening matches in the last three European Championships ended in a 0-0 draw (2020), a 1-0 win (2016), and a 1-1 draw (2012). Croatia’s recent openers have been a 0-1 loss (2020) and a 1-0 win (2016).
Prediction:
Berlin sets the stage for a crucial Group B clash between Spain and Croatia, both teams entering the match in strong form.
Spain demonstrated their attacking prowess with a 5-0 win against Andorra and a 5-1 victory over Northern Ireland, while Croatia are unbeaten in six matches, including four clean sheets.
The key question is whether Luis de la Fuente’s youthful Spanish side can overcome Croatia’s experienced midfield maestros,
Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Marcelo Brozovic. Expect Spain to dominate possession and create numerous chances, with 21-year-old Barcelona star Pedri likely to shine.
Pedri excelled in the No.10 role against Northern Ireland, scoring his first two international goals, and is poised to play a crucial role against Croatia. With a stellar season behind him and strong chemistry with teammates Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, Pedri is a player to watch this weekend.