Croatia vs Montenegro Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

The Chequered Ones have not yet lost any game in the FIFA World Cup’s European Qualifiers.

The next match in Group L of the FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers is going to be between Croatia and Montenegro. This match will be played on Monday, 8 September 2025 at Stadion Maksimir in Zagreb.

Croatia are currently in second place in the group, and Montenegro are right behind them in third place. The hosts have nine points in three games while Montenegro have six points in four games. The Vatreni have scored 12 goals so far and conceded just one, while the Brave Flacons have scored four goals and conceded five.

Croatia always look strong on their home ground, and this time too, the situation seems to be the same. Players like Andrej Kramaric are adding more sharpness to their offensive strength. Their morale is high due to consistent good performance.

On the other hand, Montenegro have also started well, but their matches have proved to be tough. This will be the first time that these national football teams will face each other. In such a situation, the Chequered Ones will be considered the favourite, but it will not be right to take Montenegro lightly. Victory in this match can prove to be very important for both teams in the qualifying race.

Kickoff:

• Location: Zagreb, Croatia
• Stadium: Maksimir
• Date and Kickoff Time: September 9 – 12:15 am IST
• Referee: Wollenberg Rasmussen
• VAR: In Use

Form:

Croatia (in all competitions): W-W-W-L-W

Montenegro (in all competitions): L-D-L-W-W

Players to watch out for:

Andrej Kramaric (Croatia):

Andrej Kramaric is definitely the player to watch for Croatia against Montenegro, having already netted five goals in the qualifiers. He is a versatile striker and is known for his clever movement off the ball and ability to create space for himself. Kramaric doesn’t wait for chances, but he actively makes them happen, often arriving late in the box to convert cut-backs.

The decisive moment: Andrej Kramarić scored his 3⃣5⃣th #Croatia goal! 👊 #FROCRO #WCQ #Family #Vatreni❤️‍🔥 pic.twitter.com/chiulf7tlI

— HNS (@HNS_CFF) September 5, 2025

Stevan Jovetic (Montenegro):

When Montenegro take on the Chequered Ones, their captain and all-time leading goalscorer, Stevan Jovetić, is a key figure to keep an eye on. The forward’s experience and attacking instincts will be vital for Montenegro. He has already found the net once in the current qualification campaign.

He is known for his ability to both finish chances and create them for his teammates. Jovetić has a history of scoring in Europe’s top leagues and will be looking to lead his team against a strong defence.

Match Facts:

• This is the first time the senior national teams of Croatia and Montenegro are facing each other in a football match. There is no previous head-to-head history to draw upon. 
• Croatia enter this match with a massive goal difference of +12. They have also won their last four home games in all competitions.
• Montenegro, meanwhile, have been less dominant in their results, with a goal difference of -1.

Croatia vs Montenegro: Betting Tips and Odds:

• Croatia to win: 1.30 as per 1xBet
• Both Teams to Score – No: 1.60 as per Parimatch.
• Andrej Kramarić to score anytime: 1.86 as per 1Win.

Note: Odds are subject to constant changes.

Injuries and Team News:

For Croatia, defenders Joško Gvardiol and Josip Stanišić are reportedly out with injuries. 

For Montenegro, they will be without Adam Marušić and Milutin Osmajićdue to injuries. 

Head-To-Head Stats:

This is the first time the senior national teams of Croatia and Montenegro are facing each other in a football match. There is no previous head-to-head history to draw upon. 

Predicted Starting Lineup:

Croatia Predicted Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):

D. Livaković; K. Jakić, M. Pongračić, D. Ćaleta-Car, B. Sosa; M. Pašalić, P. Sučić; M. Baturina, A. Kramarić, T. Fruk; A. Budimir.

Montenegro Predicted Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):

D. Petković; A. Vukčević, I. Vujačić, S. Savić, M. Vukčević; M. Brnović, A. Bulatović, M. Vukotić, M. Janković, N. Krstović; S. Jovetić.

Match Prediction:

Given Croatia’s strong start with a goal difference of +12 and playing at home, they are the favourites.

Prediction: Croatia 2-0 Montenegro

Telecast details:

India: Sony Sports

USA: Fox Sports 2

UK: ITV

Nigeria: Afrosport TV

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