Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
Croatia
Croatia have started the campaign with three wins and an aggregate score of 13:1. Comprehensive wins over Gibraltar and the Czech Republic, plus a narrow yet professional 1:0 victory against the Faroe Islands, showed that Croatia can win in different styles. The team is reliable in defence, with only one goal conceded across three rounds. Croatia have not lost at home for almost two years, and the experienced core led by Andrej Kramarić and Luka Modrić helps maintain a high level. At home, Croatia typically play with control, allowing the opposition very few chances.
Montenegro
Montenegro opened qualifying with victories over Gibraltar and the Faroe Islands, but then lost twice to the Czech Republic (both 0:2). That dropped them to third in Group L, with Croatia still holding a game in hand. The key issue is away form: since March 2023 they have not won on the road (friendlies do not count). In attack there is an emphasis on Stevan Jovetić and Adam Marušić, but against stronger opponents the team often loses the balance between defence and attack.
Croatia vs Montenegro Prediction
The gulf in quality and consistency is clear. Croatia have the more balanced squad and home advantage is significant. Montenegro have looked vulnerable in recent meetings with stronger opposition. Croatia are not inclined to produce high-scoring matches against organised teams; control, pressure and risk management come first, so we are backing Total Under 3 goals.
