Do or die for Croatia & Scotland - both will die
The decisive games in Group D of this year's Euros play out on Tuesday night, and few would've predicted Croatia and Scotland would be fighting it out for third place in all likelihood, and even then, the odds are in neither side's favour for that to be sufficient for passage through to the last 16 as one of the four best in that position. Steve Clarke's Tartan Army improved tenfold to hold England to a goalless draw, but were dealt a grievous blow on the eve of the fixture when midfielder Billy Gilmour, who looked untouchable against the Three Lions, tested positive for COVID-19. That will make it that much more difficult to get a foothold in the fixture and the result they require against the World Cup finalists. Read our preview here:
All Mod cons
There was a bit more fight and endeavour about Zlatko Dalić's men during their 1-1 tie with Czech Republic, but a far greater cutting edge will be required if they are to have a real hope of qualification. One goal in two matches is a very poor return, but it is the product of their lack of creativity. Ivan Perišić did his best, scoring the crucial strike that gives them the hope required for an attritional battle at Hampden Park in what will essentially be an away game. Once more, much will depend on captain Luka Modrić's ability to set the tempo in midfield, and step up to get into the final third.
O'Donn deal?
Gilmour's 11th hour absence might mean Clarke looks to wider areas to penetrate deep into opposition territory. Though derided to a certain extent for his performance in the first group game, Stephen O'Donnell rectified that against England, completely shutting down attacks down his right flank. Now though, Scotland must convert their excellent pressing into a significant threat in Croatia's penalty area. Che Adams' pace could do that, as could crosses from deep as long as there are numbers in attack to sufficiently disrupt the backline.
Just don't come home too soon
The onus will more firmly be on Croatia than their adversaries to come up with the win and performance to maintain an interest in the delayed tournament. However, they are equals in all senses of the word with Scotland, and both teams will be hoping to use their better second game displays as a springboard to qualify. Parimatch have odds of 3.30 for a draw that will consign both to oblivion.
For more on Euro 2021 betting sites, Euro 2021 promos and team by team coverage visit our dedicated Euro 2021 betting guide.
