Croatia
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>Croatia vs Spain Predictions, Picks & Odds – 06/10/2026
UEFA Nations League · 4Croatia vs Spain – Best bets of the match
Croatia vs Spain Preview
Croatia opened their Nations League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Czechia, a result inspired by the ageless Luka Modric, who found the net yet again at 41. Slaven Bilic's side showed grit in that win, though their recent form has been inconsistent, with two defeats in their last five outings. Mateo Kovacic has spoken confidently about disrupting Spain's rhythm through possession, but translating that ambition into results remains the challenge.
Spain arrive in formidable shape, riding a staggering 39-match unbeaten run in 90 minutes. Luis de la Fuente's reigning World and European champions produced a thrilling 3-2 comeback against England in their previous fixture, underlining their resilience. Five consecutive wins speak volumes about their consistency. Robin Le Normand has been drafted in to replace the injured Eric Garcia, and some rotation is possible after that demanding England clash.
Spain's five consecutive wins tell a story of relentless momentum, and their 39-match unbeaten run in 90 minutes is a record that demands respect. Croatia have shown fight under Slaven Bilic, but their recent form includes two defeats in five outings. The head-to-head record favours Spain heavily, with six wins against Croatia's three, including that commanding 3-0 victory at Euro 2024.
The draw or away double chance is the recommended selection here. Spain's comeback win over England demonstrated their ability to recover under pressure, a trait that separates elite squads from good ones. Luis de la Fuente may rotate his squad, yet the depth available to him is extraordinary. Even a rotated Spain side carries enough quality to avoid defeat against any opponent in world football.
Croatia's best hope lies in Mateo Kovacic's vision of controlling possession and disrupting Spain's rhythm. That ambition is admirable, but the data does not support a Croatian win as a likely outcome. Backing the double chance, covered by the away price at 1.44, provides strong value given Spain's dominance in this fixture. A draw remains plausible if De la Fuente rests key players, which only strengthens the X2 selection further.
Trends to Know about Croatia vs Spain
- Spain unbeaten in 39 consecutive matches
- Spain lead head-to-head record six to three
- Croatia lost four of last five encounters
Form & Statistics: Croatia vs Spain
Croatia
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Spain
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Lineups: Croatia vs Spain
Croatia
Starters
- 1 Dominik Livakovic
- 2 Josip Stanisic
- 3 Luka Vuskovic
- 4 Joško Gvardiol
- 5 Ivan Perisic
- 6 Luka Modric
- 7 Mateo Kovacic
- 8 Luka Sucic
- 9 Mario Pasalic
- 10 Ante Budimir
- 11 Andrej Kramaric
Bench
- Josip Šutalo
- Lovro Majer
- Marin Pongracic
- Kristijan Jakic
Absent
- Josip Juranovic (Hamstring injury)
- Martin Erlic (Foot injury)
- Martin Baturina (Illness)
- Nikola Vlašić (Ruled out (status from April 2026))
Spain
Starters
- 1 Unai Simon
- 2 Marc Pubill
- 3 Pau Cubarsi
- 4 Aymeric Laporte
- 5 Marc Cucurella
- 6 Rodri
- 7 Pedri
- 8 Fabian Ruiz
- 9 Lamine Yamal
- 10 Mikel Oyarzabal
- 11 Dani Olmo
Bench
- Alejandro Grimaldo
Absent
- Eric Garcia (Left knee discomfort (withdrew from squad))
- Joan Garcia (Minor knee issue (replaced in squad))
- Yeremy Pino (Serious shoulder injury (ruled out for 2026 World Cup, no recent update))
- Gavi (Long-term knee issue (cruciate ligament tear in July 2026))
Low confidence
Both projected XIs carry a confidence caveat here, with each formation sourced from just two outlets nearly a fortnight before kick-off, so treat these as educated guesses rather than settled selections. A mirror 4-3-3 vs 4-3-3 contest is anticipated, setting up a fascinating midfield battle between Luka Modric and Rodri.
Croatia's attacking shape leans on the experience of Kramaric and Perisic wide, while Spain's front three features the electric Lamine Yamal on the right flank. Given how speculative both lineups remain, significant changes are entirely possible once official announcements arrive closer to the Zagreb kick-off.
How to Watch Croatia vs Spain Match?
What time is Croatia vs Spain?
Croatia vs Spain kicks off on 6 October 2026 at 19:45 local time.
Where is Croatia vs Spain being played?
The venue for Croatia vs Spain is yet to be confirmed by UEFA.
How Can I Watch Croatia vs Spain on TV and Live Stream?
Broadcasting details for Croatia vs Spain will be confirmed closer to the match date by UEFA and local networks.