After the 4 star win over Ireland, Del Bosque will face a true challenge in the match against Croatia to decide who will be top of group C.
With the EURO rule, Italy and Croatia will go to quarterfinal together if they draw 2-2 tonight. If that happens, Italy will be disqualified regardless of their result in the other match of group C. However, 2-2 is an unlikely result as a momentary relapse could mean saying goodbye to EURO 2012.
In comparison to Ireland, Croatia is a much stronger opponent with Luka Modric in the middle and Mario Mandzukic, who are on top of scoring chart together with Gomez and Dzagoevem, in front. They have "weapons" that can hurt Spain.
David Silva will have a much harder time
1 point in tonight's match is enough to put Spain into next round, but they will want to keep their honor as the reigning champion. Therefore, the situation like Denmark and Sweden 8 years ago is not expected of them.
Croatia has never played against Spain in such a big tournament before, however they are having a 6 unbeatable streak if we calculate 90 minutes and extra time. Last EURO, they only lost to Turkey by penalty. Comparatively, Spain is having a 16 unbeatable streak.
Croatia will have to score as 0-0 would mean disqualification for them if Italy wins over Ireland. If the match ends up 1-1, Bilic's squad will have to wait if Italy can win Ireland with 2 goals gap.
Our Prediction
Even though Croatia has been showing some awesome football in the last 2 games, it doesn't seem that they can stop Spain from winning, especially when Torres has regained his form. We will stand our ground that Spain will grab a win with 1 goal gap, 2-1.
Betting Tips
Let's take a look at 36BOL's odds and major market for this match
Looking at Asian Handicap where Spain gives Croatia handicap of 1.25. Picking Croatia here could be a good choice at odds 0.880. Meanwhile Over 2.75 at odds 0.900 looks like an interesting bet.
For more odds and markets, check out 36BOL Sportsbook.
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