In preparation for their first game in the Uefa Nations League, Portugal and Croatia play a friendly match. Who pulls the longest end? Current European champion Portugal or vice-world champion Croatia?
Portugal:
After the disappointing elimination at the World Championships in Russia, the Portuguese started with a friendly international match against Croatia. After this they start their campaign in the Uefa Nations League. Portugal is in League A (highest division), in a group with Poland and Italy. These are teams of a very solid caliber and the game against the Croats will be a solid preparation.
In the selection of the Portuguese one big name is lacking, that of Cristiano Ronaldo. He has indicated that he wants to leave the national team for a moment to fully focus on his new club, Juventus. This is undoubtedly a big loss, given its shape and goals at the World Cup in Russia. Who will take his place is still waiting, but André Silva seems to be the biggest contender. The striker exchanged AC Milan for Sevilla this summer and made his debut there very nice, with a hat-trick in his first game. Bernardo Silva, Manchester City’s winger, will have to provide the necessary creativity.
Croatia:
What a wonderful World Cup campaign the Croatians have behind them. Unexpectedly they kicked it into the final, where they had to defeat France. It was the mix of fighting spirit and individual talent that jumped high among the general public. The Croats also play in the highest league (League A) of the Uefa Nations League. They were assigned to England and Spain, on paper a very solid group and a reissue of the semifinal in Moscow.
National coach Dalic did not make as many changes in his selection. Striking are the five players from the Jupiler Pro League who were called. First goalkeeper Subasic dropped out, making Lovre Kalinic of AA Gent probably the first choice. For the rest also no Mandzukic and, as expected, no Nicola Kalinic. Star players Modric, Rakitic and Perisic are part of the party.
PREDICTION: Both teams to score / NO @ 1.70
