Croatia vs. Portugal - Preview, Team News, Lineups

Preview:

Croatia and Portugal will face off in a crucial UEFA Nations League match on Thursday, September 23, 2023, at the Stadion Maksimir in Zagreb, Croatia. Both teams are in contention for the top spot in Group A3, which currently belongs to Portugal on goal difference. A win for either side would put them in a strong position to qualify for the Nations League Finals. Croatia, the 2018 FIFA World Cup runners-up, have won their last two Nations League matches, including a 3-1 victory over Denmark in their most recent outing. However, they will be without their star midfielder Luka Modric, who is suspended for the match. Portugal, the reigning European champions, have also won their last two Nations League matches, including a 4-0 victory over the Czech Republic in their most recent outing. They will be looking to extend their winning streak and continue their fine form under Fernando Santos. The match is expected to be a close and entertaining affair, with both teams memiliki a number of talented players.

Team News:

Croatia * Luka Modric (suspension) and Marcelo Brozovic (injury) are out. * Mateo Kovacic and Nikola Vlasic are expected to start in midfield. * Andrej Kramaric is likely to lead the line. Portugal * Joao Cancelo (injury) is out. * Diogo Dalot is expected to start at right-back. * Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to start up front.

Lineups:

Croatia (Predicted) Livakovic; Stanisic, Lovren, Gvardiol, Sosa; Kovacic, Vlasic; Perisic, Livaja, Orsic; Kramaric Portugal (Predicted) Costa; Dalot, Pepe, Dias, Mendes; Neves, Carvalho; Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo