Mon Nov 18 20:54:56 UTC 2024: ## Portugal Favored to Beat Croatia in Nations League Showdown

**Split, Croatia** – Portugal, already assured of a UEFA Nations League quarter-final berth, faces Croatia in a crucial group stage match at the Stadion Poljud on November 19th (1:15 AM IST). While Croatia needs only a point to secure their own place in the knockout rounds, they face a daunting task against a Portugal side boasting a dominant head-to-head record.

Portugal has won seven of their nine encounters with Croatia, with one Croatian victory and a single draw. Their recent 2-1 win in September, featuring goals from Diogo Dalot and Cristiano Ronaldo, further highlights this advantage. Currently topping Group 1 with 13 points from five games (four wins, one draw), Portugal arrives in high spirits after a 5-1 rout of Poland.

Croatia, on the other hand, will be looking to rebound from a 1-0 loss to Scotland. Despite the defeat, key players Dominik Livakovic and Ante Budimir return from suspension. However, the absence of Petar Sucic (red card) and the potential absence of Kristijan Jakić (injury) will be a blow.

While Portugal could rest key players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, their superior form and historical dominance over Croatia make them strong favorites. The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD and Sony Sports Ten 2 HD in India, with live streaming available on SonyLIV.

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