Croatia Triumphs Over Portugal With Historic Victory Ahead Of EURO 2024

Ante Budimir's third international goal secured Croatia's first victory over Portugal as they concluded their Euro 2024 preparations with a win. The visitors took the lead from the penalty spot inside the opening 10 minutes after Vitinha's clumsy challenge on Mateo Kovacic saw captain Luka Modric assume responsibility and fire the ball beyond Diogo Costa.

Croatia's dominance continued for much of the first period, with Lovro Majer forcing Portugal's goalkeeper into making a smart save. Zlatko Dalic's side were rarely troubled by an attacking quartet of Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix, and Goncalo Ramos. However, substitute Diogo Jota was on hand to level the scores three minutes after the restart, tapping home Nelson Semedo's teasing delivery into the area.

Heading into the eighth meeting between the sides, Croatia had managed just one draw from their previous seven encounters with Portugal. A maiden triumph was theirs when striker Budimir reacted quickest to turn home Mario Pasalic's shot that had come back off the crossbar. The introductions of Premier League duo Pedro Neto and Matheus Nunes offered the hosts more attacking pedigree, but they were unable to find a way past Dominik Livakovic.

Ruben Dias squandered a golden opportunity late on to share the spoils, with Cristiano Ronaldo remaining an unused substitute. The final whistle in Lisbon marked a historic moment for Croatia as they defeated Portugal for the first time in history before departing for Euro 2024.

Budimir's three shots in the encounter produced the highest expected goals (xG) of anyone on the pitch at 1.07, with Portugal's players combined finishing with an xG of only 1.54. At the heart of Croatia's midfield, Kovacic was the only player for either side to record a 100 per cent pass completion, completing all 39 of his attempted passes.

The match statistics highlight Croatia's efficiency and control throughout the game. Despite Portugal's attempts to break through, Croatia's defensive resilience and clinical finishing ensured their victory. This win provides a significant morale boost for Croatia as they head into Euro 2024.

The final whistle in Lisbon! #Croatia defeats @selecaoportugal for the first time in history, before departing to #EURO2024 - congratulations! #PORCRO #Family #PokaiSrce #Vatreni pic.twitter.com/95u2rH6BtQ

— HNS (@HNS_CFF) June 8, 2024