By Seyi Babalola
Spain and Croatia play their opening Group B encounter at UEFA Euro 2024 on Saturday, June 15, at 5 p.m.
Spain’s quest for a record-breaking fourth Euro title begins with a difficult match against Croatia, whom they narrowly defeated on penalties to win the Nations League last year.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad warmed up for the tournament with a strong friendly victory against Andorra and Northern Ireland, with Real Sociedad attacker Mikel Oyarzabal scoring four goals in two games.
Croatia, captained by midfielder Luka Modrić, will compete in their sixth EURO. Manchester City’s Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić bring a winning attitude, and the fans will be confident after a stunning warm-up win against Portugal last week.
The teams played one of the tournament’s games at EURO 2020, with Spain winning a round of 16 thriller 5-3 after extra time. It might become another classic in Berlin.
Possible line-ups
Spain: Simón: Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Grimaldo; Merino, Rodri, Pedri; Lamine, Morata, Williams
Croatia: Livaković; Stanišić, Šutalo, Pongračić, Gvardiol; Modrić, Brozović, Kovačić; Majer, Budimir, Kramarić.
According to Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s coach ahead of the match, he said: “I truly admire the mentality of Croatian footballers because they’re an example of national pride, of a feeling of unity, of being proud of the national team – it makes me proud when we feel the same thing in our country.
“The first goal must always be to compete and be in a position to win. I am convinced we will have a chance to fight for the title. However, there can only be one winner and there are many good national teams who can win this trophy.”
Also, in the same light, Zlatko Dalić, Croatia coach said: “We are in the toughest group, and everyone knows that. A good start is crucial. Remember the World Cup in Qatar when we played Morocco first?
“That point was very important later on. We’re not aiming for a draw: we want to show our best and win. We’re not afraid of anyone. We’re going for the win. It will be difficult and very demanding, but as always, I believe in our team.”
The match will be broadcast on GOtv and DStv. On GOtv channel 61, and DStv channels 222 and 225 respectively.