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Croatia and Turkey, two heavyweights of European football, are set to lock horns in what promises to be a decisive Group D clash for Euro 2024 qualification. As the battle for supremacy in the group reaches its climax, the stage is set for a showdown at the Stadion Gradski in Osijek, on Oct 12, 2023. With both teams sharing the same point tally but Croatia holding a game advantage, this fixture could very well determine the outcome of the group.

Analysis:

Croatia, having reached the finals of the World Cup in 2018 and been UEFA Nations League finalists, come into this match with a legacy of recent success. Manager Zlatko Dalic has kept the team’s momentum going, ensuring they stay unbeaten in the qualification process. The Croatians are seasoned campaigners, with players like Manchester City’s Mateo Kovacic, who was the nemesis for Turkey in their previous encounter, scoring twice.

Yet, the challenge is not just about overcoming the opposition; Croatia is also battling time. Veterans like Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic are at the twilight of their careers. Despite this, their vast experience and match-winning abilities make them invaluable, with Modric, in particular, set to lead the team.

However, they won’t have it easy. Turkey, under their new manager, Vincenzo Montella, will be looking to make an immediate impact. After parting ways with Stefan Kuntz, Turkey turned to Montella to revive their fortunes. Despite the rich vein of form and talent at club level, Turkey has been inconsistent internationally. This is something Montella will be eager to change. Their key players, like Hakan Calhanoglu, will be vital in this endeavor.

AD:

The history between the two sides, especially in Croatia, leans slightly in favor of the hosts. Croatia’s impressive record of never losing a European qualifier at home, combined with the fact that they’ve drawn all three previous encounters with Turkey on their soil, bodes well for them.

Prediction:

Goal.mu predicts: Croatia 2-1 Turkey.

Given Croatia’s formidable home record and Turkey’s transitional phase under a new manager, the Croatians are slight favorites. However, with the talent Turkey possesses, it will be a closely contested encounter. While both teams are capable of scoring, Croatia’s experience might be the decisive factor in clinching the three points.

Other betting markets:

• Both Teams to Score: Yes. Both teams have the firepower to breach the opposition’s defense.
• Over/Under 2.5 Full Time: Over. Considering the attacking talents on display and the significance of the match, it’s plausible to expect at least three goals in this encounter.

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