As they begin their preparations for Euro 2024, Croatia will host North Macedonia for an international friendly on Monday evening at Stadion HNK Rijeka.
This match serves as a critical warm-up for the World Cup bronze medallists as they aim for success in the upcoming European Championship. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting fixture.
When and Where is the Croatia vs North Macedonia?
The match between Croatia and North Macedonia will take place on Monday, June 3, 2024, at Stadion HNK Rijeka in Croatia. The kickoff is scheduled for 6pm UK time.
Croatia vs North Macedonia Kickoff Times of Different Countries
- United Kingdom: 6:00 PM
- Central Europe: 7:00 PM
- North Macedonia: 7:00 PM
- United States (Eastern Time): 1:00 PM
- United States (Pacific Time): 10:00 AM
- Canada (Eastern Time): 1:00 PM
- Australia (Sydney Time): 3:00 AM (June 4)
- India: 10:30 PM
Croatia vs North Macedonia H2H
Historically, Croatia and North Macedonia have faced each other multiple times, with Croatia generally having the upper hand. In their previous encounters, Croatia has shown dominance both in competitive matches and friendlies. North Macedonia will be eager to change the narrative, but Croatia’s strong squad and home advantage make them the favorites.
Match Preview
Croatia’s Road to Euro 2024
Croatia, known for their golden generation of football, is on a mission to finally capture a major trophy. After impressive finishes in the last two World Cups and a strong run in the UEFA Nations League, Zlatko Dalic’s men are eager to make their mark at Euro 2024.
Despite a shaky qualifying campaign, where they faced setbacks against Turkey and Wales, Croatia secured their spot with crucial victories over Latvia and Armenia.
The Vatreni have historically struggled in the Euros, never progressing past the quarter-finals and facing early exits in recent tournaments. With a challenging group featuring Italy, Spain, and Albania, Croatia’s warm-up matches, including the one against North Macedonia, are crucial for fine-tuning their strategy and form.
North Macedonia’s Journey
North Macedonia, on the other hand, missed out on Euro 2024 qualification after competing in a tough group with England, Italy, and Ukraine. Despite holding both England and Italy to draws, the Lynxes couldn’t secure a spot in the playoffs. Now, they are focused on building for future competitions, including the Nations League and the next World Cup.
Under the guidance of head coach Blagoja Milevski, North Macedonia is working on integrating new talents and solidifying their squad. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with a 1-0 loss to Montenegro highlighting their need for improvement. Monday’s friendly offers them a valuable opportunity to test themselves against a top-tier team.
Team News
Croatia
Croatia might use this match to experiment with their lineup, given their upcoming tougher test against Portugal. Zlatko Dalic has most of his experienced players available, although Torino forward Nikola Vlasic is sidelined due to an adductor problem. Ivan Perisic, recovering from a serious knee injury, is nearing full fitness and could feature in the game.
Andrej Kramaric, the second-top scorer in the squad, will likely lead the attack alongside emerging talents like Josip Stanisic and Josip Sutalo. Midfield maestros Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are expected to control the midfield, providing stability and creativity.
North Macedonia
North Macedonia will be without their inspirational captain Enis Bardhi, who is out with a shoulder injury. The creative responsibilities will fall on RB Leipzig’s Eljif Elmas and Aberdeen striker Bojan Miovski. Coach Blagoja Milevski has not called up a replacement for Bardhi, focusing instead on evaluating his existing squad.
Also Check: Euro 2024 Friendlies Schedule
Possible Lineups
Croatia
- Goalkeeper: Livakovic
- Defenders: Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Brozovic, Modric, Kovacic
- Forwards: Majer, Kramaric, Pjaca
North Macedonia
- Goalkeeper: Dimitrievski
- Defenders: Manev, Musliu, Serafimov
- Midfielders: Dimoski, Atanasov, Alimi, Alioski
- Forward: Elmas; Ristovski, Miovski
Croatia vs North Macedonia Prediction
Both teams might show signs of rustiness in their first June friendly, with managers using the match to assess their options. Despite this, Croatia’s superior talent and experience should see them secure a comfortable win.
Prediction: Croatia 2-0 North Macedonia
This friendly match is more than just a warm-up; it’s an opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum.
As Croatia aims for European glory and North Macedonia looks to rebuild, fans can expect an engaging encounter at Stadion HNK Rijeka. Don’t miss the action as these teams gear up for their respective challenges ahead!