The highly anticipated opening match of Group B at the 2024 UEFA European Championship will take place at the iconic Olympiastadion in Berlin, as three-time champions Spain lock horns with perennial contenders Croatia.

A Battle of Pedigree and Ambition

Spain, the reigning Nations League champions, will be eager to kick off their quest for a record-breaking fourth European title in style.1Led by the experienced manager Luis de la Fuente, the Spanish squad boasts a healthy mix of youthful exuberance and seasoned veterans, ready to leave their mark on the tournament. On the other hand, Croatia, a team renowned for their World Cup heroics, will be determined to finally translate their recent international success onto the European stage. Under the guidance of Zlatko Dalić, the Croatians will lean on the ageless brilliance of Luka Modrić, supported by a core of proven performers such as Mateo Kovačić and Marcelo Brozović.

A Clash of Styles and Philosophies

The tactical approaches of Spain and Croatia present an intriguing contrast. The Spanish side, known for their intricate passing game and possession-based style, will look to dominate the tempo of the match and control the flow of the game. In contrast, Croatia’s game plan often revolves around a more direct and physical approach, complemented by their ability to capitalize on counterattacking opportunities.1The battle for midfield supremacy will be a captivating subplot, as the Spanish trio of Pedri, Rodri, and Fabián Ruiz aim to outmaneuver the experienced Croatian midfield maestros Modrić, Brozović, and Kovačić. The outcome of this crucial area of the pitch could ultimately determine the direction of the match.

Injury Concerns and Youth Prospects

Both teams will have to navigate their fair share of injury concerns and selection dilemmas heading into this clash. Spain will be without the services of the experienced defender Aymeric Laporte, who has been ruled out due to a soft tissue injury. However, the young Lamine Yamal, who at 16 years and 322 days old will become the youngest player to feature in a European Championship, is expected to make a significant impact for Luis de la Fuente’s side. Croatia, on the other hand, will have a full complement of players to choose from, although the fitness and match sharpness of veteran winger Ivan Perišić remains a question mark. Nevertheless, Dalić’s side will be buoyed by the recent impressive performances of their key players, including the dynamic duo of Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić.

The Coaches’ Perspectives

The respective coaches, Luis de la Fuente and Zlatko Dalić, have provided valuable insights into their approaches and expectations for this crucial encounter.De la Fuente has expressed his admiration for the mentality and national pride of the Croatian players, acknowledging their ability to compete at the highest level. The Spanish tactician is convinced that his team will have a chance to fight for the title, but he also recognizes the strength of the opposition and the unpredictable nature of their previous encounters. On the other hand, Dalić has emphasized the importance of a strong start in this difficult group, drawing inspiration from Croatia’s successful campaign at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.1The Croatian coach has made it clear that his side is not aiming for a draw and will be going all out for the victory, confident in the quality and resilience of his team.

A Clash of Titans: Past Encounters and Predictions

The history between Spain and Croatia at major international tournaments has been one of closely contested affairs, often decided by narrow margins. Their most recent encounter, in the 2020 European Championship, saw Spain emerge victorious after an enthralling 5-3 extra-time victory in the round of 16.

As the two teams prepare to renew their rivalry in Berlin, the experts have weighed in with their predictions. Spanish reporter Graham Hunter anticipates a tight and cagey affair, cautioning against premature celebrations or despair, as the match could see late drama and result-altering goals. Meanwhile, Croatian reporter Elvir Islamović believes his country’s side will be aiming to replicate their strong performance against Spain in the Nations League final last year, suggesting that a draw would not be an unsatisfactory outcome for Croatia.

With both teams eager to make a strong start to their respective European Championship campaigns, this Group B opener promises to be a captivating encounter, pitting the continental powerhouses of Spain and Croatia against each other in a high-stakes battle for early supremacy.