Croatia and Albania meet in a must-win group-stage clash at the UEFA Euro 2024 on Wednesday, June 19th, 2024. Kick-off for this crucial match is set for the following details:
- Date: Wednesday, June 19th, 2024
- Time: 6:45 PM Nepal Time
- Venue: Volksparkstadion
| Date | Match | Nepal Time |
| June 19, 2024 | Germany vs Hungary | 9:45 PM |
The 2018 World Cup runners-up were dealt a heavy blow, losing 3-0 to Spain in their first match. All three goals were conceded in a dismal first half for Croatia, with a disallowed goal adding insult to injury. Bruno Petkovic’s penalty rebound was saved by Unai Simon, but Ivan Perišić, who had assisted for the rebound, encroached into the penalty area before the kick was taken. VAR intervened, disallowing the goal.
The Red and Blacks, meanwhile, started their campaign brightly, taking an early lead against the defending champions Italy. Nedim Bajrami scored a historic goal after just 23 seconds, the fastest in UEFA Euro history. However, Italy responded quickly, scoring twice within five minutes to snatch victory in the first half.
A Draw Not Enough for Croatia
A draw wouldn’t be ideal for Croatia, especially considering their negative goal difference compared to Albania’s (-1).
Head-to-Head: A First Meeting
This will be the first time these two nations meet in a competitive fixture.
Croatia has cause for concern, having lost their last two European Championship matches against Spain. Additionally, they have suffered defeats in four of their last six Euros games.
Injury Concerns for Both Teams
Zlatko Dalić might be forced into changes for Croatia as Nikola Vlašić is a doubt with a knock. Albania, meanwhile, has injury concerns surrounding winger Jasir Asani, who missed training with an ankle problem.
Prediction:
Despite their recent struggles, Croatia’s experience and overall squad quality should see them through. Expect a close encounter, with Croatia winning 2-1.
