Top of the table clash in Group H
Close cut affair
Group H is one of the tightest groups in the entire World Cup qualifiers, with Croatia at the top and Cyprus bottom, separated by just four points. It truly is all to play for, and this adds even more significance when Croatia travel to Slovakia, who are just a point behind the leaders, on Saturday. Croatia are certainly on a downward trajectory since being finalists in the last World Cup. With an ageing squad, Slovakia will fancy their chances to get something against this Croatia side that’s far from their best.
Downhill since 2018
Both sides come into this game off the back of draws, Croatia grinding out a 0-0 away in Russia, arguably their toughest fixture of these qualifiers, while Slovakia played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Slovenia. Fortuna Dusseldorf striker Robert Bozenik scored his first goal for his country in nearly two-years, grabbing the opener on Wednesday night before Slovenia hit back just before halftime through Petar Stojanovic. Slovakia also claimed a big scalp in Group H, beating Russia 2-1, something Croatia couldn’t match. However, in this qualifying campaign, Stefan Tarkovic’s side have been held by both Cyprus and Malta, games where, if they could’ve claimed all three points, they’d be sitting pretty at the top of this very close group. Croatia will take positives from being top of the group and already having their trip to Russia under their belt. However, they’ve lost nine of their last 18 fixtures since that famous World Cup final of 2018, a sobering wake up call to a nation so rich in footballing history. Despite being an old squad, they’ve still got more than enough talent to end up topping this groups. The likes of Ivan Perisic, Mateo Kovacic, and Andrej Kramaric still all at the top of their game, with new West Ham signing Nikola Vlasic bringing the attacking flair in the number ten position. There’s definitely goals to come with this team but scoring just four goals in their last four games is something that has to be improved upon if they’re to top this group.
Croatia’s experience to see them through?
Despite this game likely to be quite a cagey affair, I can see both teams searching for a win to kick on and put some daylight between them and the other teams in this close-to-call group. Croatia have certainly been far from their best, but their experience of big games and turning up for important moments could be key here against a much less talented Slovakia outfit. Having said this, their good form should see the hosts at least grab a goal against an out-of-sorts Croatia side.
Slovakia will certainly fancy their chances to pull off an upset against Croatia. While I think they could possibly do this, I’d rather our chances covering the goals angle as I can see a swift response from the visitors. That’s why I’m going with Both Teams to Score with bet365.
Post bet chat Archie's Tips:
Croatia won 0-1. Slovakia had 16 shots but couldn't make the visitors pay