Preview: Croatia vs Slovenia prediction, odds, where to watch, time | International Friendly
Can Zlatko Dalic end the Checkered Ones’ winless run with a win over Slovenia in the neighbours’ derby?
Stadion Varteksin in Varaždin gears up to host the international friendly fixture between FIFA World Cup 2018 finalists Croatia and Slovenia in what is also referred to as the neighbours’ derby.
Despite a tiny population of under 4 million, Croatia remains one of the only two nations from Europe, alongside France, to make it to two back-to-back semi-finals in the last two World Cups. Their recent form is, however, concerning. They are coming after defeats to Brazil and Belgium.
They are led by none other than Zlatko Dalic. He has been at the helm for almost a decade now, and this will be his third World Cup as their gaffer. They are drawn in a difficult group alongside England, Ghana and Panama and will be keen to clinch a win before heading to North America.
Slovenia missed out on the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a gruelling qualification process. But they showed in Euro 2024 that they remain an incredibly dangerous and highly physical side capable of frustrating elite teams. They last qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2010.
The Reprezentanca are led by Matjaz Kek. He has previously been at the helm of Al Ittihad, and this is his second stint with the Slovenia national team. They are coming after a 1-1 draw over Cyprus recently.
Kick-off:
- Location: Stadium in Varaždin, Croatia
- Stadium: Stadion Anđelko Herjavec
- Date: Monday, June 8
- Kick-off time: 12:15 a.m. IST
- Referee: TBD
- VAR: In use
Players to Watch
Mateo Kovacic (Croatia)
During his early days in Inter, Giovanni Trapattoni famously described him as a brilliant hybrid of Kaka and Clarence Seedorf. Kovacic, one of the best midfielders Croatia has ever produced, was one of the main protagonists behind podium finish in the last two World Cup editions.
One of the very few players to win the UEFA Champions League with two different clubs. Kovacic has played for top teams like Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Real Madrid before making a move to Manchester City.
His recent form with City has been fairly inconsistent. He will be looking forward to rediscovering his lost form with his nation in the World Cup.
Jaka Bijol (Slovenia)
The undisputed leader of Slovenia’s defensive shield, Bijol is coming after an excellent season with Daniel Farke’s Leeds United. The Peacocks managed to survive relegation after getting promoted to the English top flight last season. He made a move from Udinese after playing three years in Italy.
He spent the early years of his career playing as a defensive midfielder. Bijol has good control of the ball and offers positional flexibility to his team.
Match Facts
- The only time Croatia lost to Slovenia was back in the 2021 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
- Primoz Gliha from Slovenia is the highest scorer in the fixture.
- The last time these two sides met, it ended in a 1-1 draw.
Croatia vs Slovenia: Betting Tips and Odds
- Croatia to win the match – 4/11 with bet365
- Both teams to score – 11/8 with bet365
- Croatia 3-1 Slovenia – 12/1 with bet365
Injury and Team News
Croatia have no injury concerns for the game.
Slovenia will be without the services of Andraz Sporar. He is not fully fit for the game.
Head-to-Head
Total matches: 12
Croatia won: 07
Slovenia won: 01
Matches drawn: 04
Predicted Lineups
Croatia predicted lineup (3-4-2-1)
Dominik Livaković (GK); Josip Šutalo, Luka Vušković, Joško Gvardiol; Josip Stanišić, Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Ivan Perišić; Petar Sučić, Martin Baturina; Petar Musa.
Slovenia predicted lineup (4-4-2)
Jan Oblak (GK); Erik Janža, David Brekalo, Jaka Bijol, Nino Kuzmič; Benjamin Verbič, Tamar Svetlin, Adam Gnezda Čerin, Svit Sešlar; Arnel Jakupović Vipotnik, Gregor Sturm.
Match Prediction
Despite Croatia’s recent defeats, we expect them to bounce back and win the next game before heading to the World Cup. They have one of the best midfields that can literally seem unplayable at times.
Prediction: Croatia 3-1 Slovenia
Telecast Details
Globally: UEFA .tv
UK: ITV and BBC
Nigeria: StarTimes
North America: Primer Video, Fubo
When and where is the Croatia vs Slovenia match?
The venue is Stadion Varteksin in Varaždin, Croatia. It will be played on Monday, June 8, at 12:15 a.m. IST.
Where and how to watch Croatia vs Slovenia in the USA?
FOX One can be used to watch the fixture live.
Who is in Croatia’s group for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
England, Ghana and Panama.
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In addition to writing articles on World and Indian Football, Saikat has also covered tournaments like the Durand Cup, Indian Super League, and Hockey India League. Notably, his exceptional communication skills have seen him interview legendary icons like Olympic 2024 gold medalist Yibbi Jansen, former Real Madrid player Javi Hernandez, and many more such sporting stalwarts.