Portugal vs Croatia Prediction & Odds

Portugal enters this World Cup Round of 32 clash after an unbeaten group stage, including a dominant 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, but also drawing with DR Congo and Colombia. Croatia bounced back from an opening loss to England, securing crucial victories against Panama (1-0) and Ghana (2-1) to claim second in their group. Their recent head-to-head record shows a competitive history, with Croatia winning 2-1 in June 2024, followed by a 2-1 Portugal victory and a 1-1 draw in late 2024.

Both teams boast fully fit squads, with Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, leading Portugal's attack and having scored twice in the group stage after recovering from a hamstring issue. Croatia's midfield maestro, Luka Modrić, 40, is set to play after a facial injury, recently earning his 201st cap and providing a vital assist against Ghana. Portugal's creative force, Bruno Fernandes, and Croatia's defensive anchor, Joško Gvardiol, will also be pivotal to their teams' fortunes.

This first-ever World Cup encounter between the nations in Toronto carries immense stakes, possibly marking the final World Cup appearance for both Ronaldo and Modrić. Croatia's coach, Zlatko Dalić, anticipates a grueling midfield battle, where his experienced unit, featuring Modrić and Mateo Kovačić, will aim to disrupt Portugal's technically gifted midfield led by Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha. The tactical challenge for Portugal will be to convert their attacking depth, featuring players like Rafael Leão and João Félix, into decisive goals against a disciplined Croatian defense, especially considering Ronaldo's notable drought in World Cup knockout stages.