Final Group B Clash: Italy vs Croatia in Battle for Knockout Stages at Euro 2024

The final Group B match of Euro 2024 pits Italy against Croatia, with both sides looking to secure their place in the knockout stages. For Italy, a point is all they need to advance, after suffering a 1-0 loss to Spain in their second match. Croatia, on the other hand, must win to progress, following a disappointing 2-2 draw with Albania.

Italian coach Luciano Spalletti is expected to make changes for this crucial game. Federico Dimarco may miss out due to a calf injury, and Matteo Darmian could replace him if he doesn’t recover in time. In midfield, Bryan Cristante and Jorginho are predicted to partner up in a double pivot role, allowing Nicolo Barella to play more aggressively. Andrea Cambiaso could start on the right flank, while Mateo Retegui may lead the line instead of Gianluca Scamacca. Several Italian players are at risk of suspension, including Gigi Donnarumma, Riccardo Calafiori, Cristante and Lorenzo Pellegrini who are all one booking away from a ban.

On the Croatian side, Zlatko Dalic is also expected to make changes after their draw with Albania. Josko Gvardiol could replace Ivan Perisic at left-back and Marin Pongracic could take over at center-back. Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are likely to anchor the midfield while Luca Sucic and Mario Pasalic provide support for Andrej Kramaric up front.

The predicted starting XI for Italy is a 4-2-3-1 formation with Donnarumma as goalkeeper, Darmian at left back and Calafiori at right back alongside Bastoni and Di Lorenzo in defense. Jorginho and Cristante will play as midfielders alongside Chiesa and Barella on the wings while Cambiaso will lead the line with Retegui replacing Scamacca