Overview
Croatia put themselves in a difficult position after losing 0-1 to Scotland in the last match. This draw meant that coach Zlatko Dalic's team missed the chance to enter the quarter-finals with one match to spare.
They are now even facing the risk of having to play a relegation play-off if they lose to Portugal, and Scotland wins big against Poland. Therefore, Croatia will have to bring home at least 1 point against the "European Selecao" to secure their place in the next round.
As for Portugal, they officially completed the task of finishing at the top with a resounding 5-1 victory over Poland. The "European Selecao" had an explosive second half, in which Cristiano Ronaldo scored a double while Leao, Bruno Fernandes and Neto contributed 1 goal each.
Portugal will be in a good mood against Croatia and will be spared any injuries. However, even so, Croatia will not have an easy game. More than ever, Croatian fans hope that veteran Luka Modric will lead the team to achieve their goals.
Home ground will be a big advantage for Croatia in this match. The Balkan team has won all 4 recent matches played at home. It will not be easy for Croatia to beat Portugal, but a draw is what they can think of.
Portugal have won seven, drawn one and lost one of their last nine matches against Croatia. The 'European Selecao' have also won three of their last four meetings, including a 2-1 victory in the first leg in September.
Human resources situation
Croatia will be without Susic, who was sent off against Scotland. Pasalic and Nikola Vlasic are pushing for a place in the starting XI, while Modric will continue to dominate midfield.
On the other side of the front line, Portugal could make changes with Vitinha, Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo all starting. However, pillars like Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes will keep their starting positions.
Expected lineup:
Croatia: Kotarski, Jakic, Sutalo, Caleta-Car, Gvardiol, Modric, Kovacic, Sucic, Pasalic, Vlasic, Kramaric.
Portugal: Diogo Costa, Cancelo, Silva, Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Neves, Vitinha, Felix, Fernandes, Leao, Ronaldo.
The match between Croatia and Portugal takes place at 2:45 a.m. on November 19 (Vietnam time).
