UEFA’s premier international tournament, Euro 2024, promises to captivate football fans worldwide as European nations compete on the grand stage. On the opening matchday, three-time European champions Spain will face Croatia, often regarded as the best team never to win gold on the international stage.
To Win (90 min)
Spain 17/20
Draw 24/10
Croatia 32/10
Spain
Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente has garnered widespread support at the helm of La Roja, having comfortably secured the team a spot in the 2024 European Championship. Spain, tied with Germany with three Euro titles, is a team steeped in history and success.
Winners of Euro 2008 and 2012, Spain is the only nation to have won the tournament back-to-back. However, it’s been over a decade since their last European Championship triumph.
Key players to watch include Manchester City powerhouse Rodri, Barcelona’s young talent Pedri, and seasoned forward Álvaro Morata.
Croatia
Led by the majestic Luka Modric, Croatia enters the tournament with a rich history of international success, including a runner-up finish in the 2018 World Cup and a bronze medal in the recent Qatar edition.
Despite their impressive pedigree, Croatia is determined to go even further in Euro 2024, aiming to improve upon their Round of 16 exits in both 2016 and 2020.
Zlatko Dalic, Croatia’s most successful manager, has been at the helm since 2017. Under his guidance, veterans like Ballon d’Or winner Modric, Ivan Perisic, and rising star Josko Gvardiol have flourished. While there are many players to watch, these key individuals are poised to be difference-makers.
Prediction: Spain Win
Spain rightfully emerges as the favourite, given the team’s balanced blend of experience and youth. Despite the recent honours of the Croatian squad, key midfielders Modric and Brozovic are nearing the end of their careers and coming off a demanding season.
In contrast, La Furia Roja boasts a well-rounded squad capable of maintaining intensity throughout the tournament. This balance might give Spain the edge needed to secure victory in their opening match.