CROATIA and Albania go into this game NEEDING to win after defeats in their opening games – and the action unfolds THIS afternoon!
Croatia in particular had a disappointing start to the Euros after they were hammered 3-0 by Spain last time out.
The Croatians would have gone into that game fancying their chances but were well beaten after Spain raced into a three goal first half lead.
Bruno Petkovic thought he’d given his side a chance to get back into it when he converted after having his penalty initially saved by Unai Simon but had his strike chalked off for encroachment.
So the Croatians will need to reset as they go into what should be the most winnable game of Group B.
Albania are one of the lowest ranked teams in the tournament according to Fifa, with the organisation having them at 66th in the world.
They had the dream start to their tournament when they scored after just 23 seconds against Italy.
Nedjim Bajrami’s strike was the fastest in Euros history, but if anything came a little too early for the defence-first team.
The Red and Blacks looked shocked to lead so early against Italy, which allowed the Azzuri to get back into the game.
Goals from Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella were enough to ensure they lost 2-1 to the Italians.
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Croatia will be hoping to control the midfield courtesy of the impressive triumvirate of Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic.
While Albania will be looking to Chelsea forward Armando Broja to spearhead their attack – although he has struggled for goals in an Albania shirt.
Both Modric and Kovacic were withdrawn against Spain as the Croatians struggled for legs in the midfield.
Neither are injured and will likely start against Albania.
Ante Budimir has been struggling up front and Petkovic could come in for him this game.
Albania meanwhile have a clean bill of health.
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic said he has been keeping a keen eye on Albania after his side’s defeat to Spain.
He said: “We are analysing Albania and we will look at what we need to do while being aware that this is a crucial match for us, that we have to win, and that our opponents have confidence after a good performance against Italy.
“They took the lead in the first minute and they put up a good fight. Another difficult match and a tough fight is ahead of us, but we are used to that.
“The Croatian fans will surely not leave us hanging – they will stand with us in Hamburg as well.”
Former Arsenal player and Albania manager Sylvinho said: “The fans were incredible, inside and outside the stadium. It’s a shame we couldn’t get an equaliser [against Italy].
“If we hadn’t conceded the second goal, we’d have been well placed to hit them on the counterattack.”
2-1 to Croatia
Yes! The game is FREE to watch on ITV1, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
*Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.
