Croatia take on the visitors Scotland in the round 3 match of UEFA Nations League group stage. The match will be played on Saturday, October 12th at Stadion Maksimir (Zagreb).
The "Checkered Ones" under current manager Dalic have been better than ever. First, they celebrated the 20th anniversary of Šuker's triumph in France by surpassing that achievement and reaching the 2018 World Cup final. Then, in Qatar two years ago, the revamped team claimed the bronze medal, and in the summer of 2023, only a penalty shootout loss separated them from winning the Nations League, with Spain taking the title. However, a year later, "La Furia Roja" handed them a crushing 3-0 defeat. This wasn’t the end, but Croatia’s inability to finish games became evident as both Albania and Italy scored in extra time, securing draws. As a result, Croatia exited Germany after the group stage. Returning in the fall, they are now without Vida and Brozović but still with Modrić, whose goal earned a victory over Poland—although they had previously lost to Portugal.
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Scotland has reached its peak level. The "Tartan Army" didn’t just win their group in Division B—they earned the right to compete with the best in the Nations League. It's worth noting that this Euro is the second consecutive continental tournament for Steve Clarke's men, and they qualified directly. On the downside, both in the previous European Championship and now, they managed only a draw alongside two defeats, leading to early exits. In the Nations League so far, Scotland has confirmed its status as the group's underdog—losing narrowly to Poland at home and Portugal away, 1-2 and 2-3, respectively. It’s unclear where they might pick up points, but they’ll need to try, including on Saturday.
The teams played to a draw in their first three meetings, but in the 2013 World Cup qualifiers, the "Tartan Army" managed to beat their prestigious opponent twice. It wasn't until Euro 2020 that Modrić and company finally triumphed, winning 3-1. Dalic’s side is stronger and playing at home. Without overthinking it, the logical bet is on a "home win."
Prediction for the match: Croatia to win.
