Portugal vs Croatia UEFA Nations League Clash 2024 - World Sports News, IPL, Biography

Portugal vs Croatia UEFA Nations League: The UEFA Nations League is back, and all eyes are on the League A Group 1 fixture between Portugal and Croatia. The two teams will meet at the Estadio do Benfica in Lisbon on Thursday night, September 5th.

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Recent Encounters: Portugal vs Croatia

The last time these two sides met was in June during a friendly, where Croatia emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. Croatia, the 2018 FIFA World Cup runners-up, will look to replicate that success, while Portugal aims to start their Nations League journey on a high note.

Portugal’s Journey So Far

Portugal had an eventful Euro 2024, but their campaign ended in disappointment as they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by France on penalties. This match marked a significant moment for Portugal, as veteran defender Pepe, at 41, retired from international football. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, still a key player at 39, is eager to continue building on his remarkable record of 130 international goals. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has already netted four goals in as many games for Al Nassr this season.

With two major titles won under former coach Fernando Santos, Portugal is now under the guidance of Roberto Martinez, who took charge in January 2023. Martinez will be under pressure to deliver silverware, given the wealth of talent at his disposal.

Croatia’s Aspirations

Croatia, led by the legendary Luka Modric, is determined to go one step further this time. After finishing as runners-up in the 2018 World Cup and securing third place in 2022, Croatia’s Euro 2024 campaign ended in disappointment as they were eliminated in the group stage. The team is undergoing a transition, with head coach Zlatko Dalic focusing on integrating new talent to complement the experienced core.

Probable Lineups: Portugal vs Croatia UEFA Nations League

Croatia: Livakovic, Pongracic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa, Modric, L. Sucic, Kovacic, Pasalic, Kramaric, Ivanusec

Portugal: Costa, Dalot, Dias, A. Silva, Mendes, Palhinha, Vitinha, B. Silva, Fernandes, Leao, Ronaldo

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Khurshid Anwar

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