Will Croatia win its final friendly before the World Cup?
Croatia has had two fantastic World Cups, but they aren’t among the favorites for the upcoming tournament. However, things look different when you turn your attention to the upcoming Croatia vs. Slovenia prediction. There are many reasons to expect a home win for the Kockasti.
In the Croatia vs. Slovenia prediction, the hosts are favored, and a win would be crucial after losing their last two friendlies in a row. Things are more relaxed for Slovenia, as they won’t be participating in the World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Zlatko Dalic has been Croatia’s coach since 2017. Under his leadership, the team finished 2nd and 3rd at the last two World Cups, but was eliminated after the group stage at the European Championship in Germany two years ago.
After a disappointing European Championship two years ago, Croatia is aiming to compete at the very top again this year. However, they aren’t considered among the favorites for the World Cup. Things look different for Sunday’s match, though, as the Croatia–Slovenia odds clearly show.
Since it’s a home game at Varteks Stadium, the hosts are expected to come out on top. A Croatia victory by at least a two-goal margin is entirely possible and can be bet on at Winamax at odds of 2.10.
Croatia is the stronger team and, after two recent losses to Brazil and Belgium, must step up their game to head to North America on a high note. A dominant performance is expected, with a first-half victory a distinct possibility. NEO.bet is offering odds of 2.02 on this outcome.
The Croatians were one of the highest-scoring teams in World Cup qualifying, which is why over 2.5 goals are also a possibility. The odds for this are 1.85 at Bet-at-home. Slovenia, on the other hand, managed to score only three goals in total during qualifying.
Croatia – Slovenia Head-to-Head Record
These two neighboring countries have faced off since the early 1990s, and to this day, the Kockasti have a clear lead in the head-to-head record, as reflected in the Croatia vs. Slovenia betting odds. In twelve matches, Croatia has won seven times and Slovenia only once.
The last time they faced each other was in a friendly match in 2022. It ended in a 1-1 draw. However, that last match is no longer relevant for this Sunday’s game.
Croatia – Slovenia Prediction
Slovenia managed to secure only four points in qualifying and will therefore naturally not be participating in the World Cup finals. Ironically, they even finished ahead of Sweden, which, however, did manage to qualify via the Nations League and playoffs.
For Slovenia, this is simply a regular friendly match, while Croatia must give it their all once again. Of course, no one wants to get injured so close to the start of the tournament, but after two consecutive losses, they need to leave the field with a win.
Given the team’s strength and home-field advantage—even though Varaždin is right on the border with Slovenia—a clear victory for the hosts is a safe bet. Over 2.5 goals and a win by at least a two-goal margin are both possible. That would already be a win for Croatia by the end of the first half.
For Croatia, the World Cup doesn’t start until June 17. The first match will be a tough one right off the bat, as they’ll face England in East Rutherford, New Jersey. But since they’ll also be playing Panama and Ghana, their chances of advancing are very good.
