Croatia vs. Turkey: Preview and betting tips

The October qualifying matches for Euro 2024 in Germany start on Thursday. In addition to the Czech Republic’s match against Albania, Croatia’s match against Turkey is also worth watching. What to expect from the match and what to bet on?

Croatia is flying through the path of the unpredictable group with ease, after five rounds they are in first place by a score just ahead of the Turks. Moreover, it has a game in hand. It is a fresh Nations League finalist and also has a bronze from the Winter World Cup in Qatar.

The Turks are in a similar position, but only drew with Armenia at the last meeting and remain on ten points. Moreover, the odds are stacked against them, after a trip to Croatia they will challenge Latvia at home and possibly play Wales away in a match for everything in November.

Croatia’s key figures

Experienced striker Andrej Kramaric has thrived in the national jersey, netting six goals in the past 13 games. The ageless Luka Modric, at 38, is still the most capped player in the selection.

Turkey’s key figures

In the away squad, mention must be made of Hakan Calhanoglu, who is still playing first fiddle at Inter Milan. In the absence of the injured Arda Guller, the form of Orkun Kökcü, a stable figure in Benfica’s midfield, will be needed.

The Croatians have been strong for a long time. In qualifying they lost only for a draw in Wales, the opponents’ equaliser came in stoppage time. In Turkey they won clearly 2-0, now they will have the advantage of the home crowd.

The Turks are not doing well in qualifying, they often get lucky. Against Armenia, they grabbed a point at the end, and in Latvia they even won in the set-up. Wales were beaten because they played long shorthanded after being sent off.

Considering the Croatians’ long-standing form, the home advantage and the Turks’ erratic and mostly mediocre performances, I think the bronze medallists from Qatar will win.

Betting Tip l Match Winner – Croatia

Source: UEFA