Spain’s quest for a record fourth European Championship title begins with a familiar challenge as they face Croatia in the Euro 2024 group opener at Berlin’s iconic Olympiastadion. The matchup on Saturday night not only sets the tone for a competitive Group C—also featuring defending champions Italy and Albania—but also rekindles a rivalry that has become a staple of recent European tournaments.
This encounter marks the fourth consecutive European Championship where Spain and Croatia cross paths. Their history is rich with memorable clashes, including Spain’s thrilling 5-3 extra-time victory in the round of 16 at Euro 2020. More recently, Spain edged out Croatia on penalties to claim the UEFA Nations League title last year, adding another chapter to their competitive saga.
Croatia enters the tournament led by the indomitable Luka Modrić. At 38, Modrić is making his fifth European Championship appearance, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad. Fresh off a remarkable season with Real Madrid, where he secured both the Spanish league and Champions League titles, Modrić remains the heartbeat of Zlatko Dalić’s team.
Spain, under the guidance of their manager, have showcased impressive form in their warm-up matches. Convincing victories over Andorra and Northern Ireland have boosted the team’s confidence, with Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal shining brightly by netting four goals across the two games. His performance adds to Spain’s attacking prowess as they look to make a strong start in the tournament.
A subplot to watch is the presence of Spain midfielder Dani Olmo, who has deep connections with Croatian football. Olmo spent six formative years at Dinamo Zagreb from 2014 to 2020, during which he played alongside several members of the current Croatian squad, including Dominik Livaković, Bruno Petković, and Joško Gvardiol. Croatian coach Dalić has openly expressed admiration for Olmo, hinting at a desire that the talented midfielder might have donned the Croatian jersey instead.
Croatia’s preparation has been equally noteworthy, with an encouraging win over Portugal signaling their intent to compete at the highest level. As both teams bring their rich histories and in-form players to the pitch, fans can anticipate a match that is not only a battle for group supremacy but also a continuation of one of Europe’s most engaging football rivalries.
With the stakes high and the backdrop of Berlin’s Olympiastadion—the venue for the final next month—the stage is set for an opening match that promises excitement, skill, and a display of top-tier European football. Football enthusiasts around the world will be keenly watching to see who asserts dominance in this latest chapter between Spain and Croatia.
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Euro 2024: Familiar foes Spain and Croatia clash again in group opener
cgtn.com
