Euro 2024: Why Luka Modric and co. absolutely need to win Croatia vs Albania match?

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Croatia's hopes of a successful Euro 2024 campaign were dealt a significant blow after they lost 0-3 to Spain in their opening match. This defeat has left the last year's Nations League finalists in a precarious position. They are now in a must-win situation for their next game against Albania on June 19.

Croatia, led by veteran midfielder Luka Modric, who is 38 years old, were outclassed by a dominant Spanish side in their Group B opener. The loss has raised concerns about the future of Croatia's "golden generation" in this tournament. The potential early exit would be a disappointing end to Modric's career.

He has been a driving force behind the team's success in recent years. Adding to Croatia's woes, they have suffered a significant injury blow. Midfielder Nikola Vlasic sustained a muscle injury in training. Coach Zlatko Dalic, has acknowledged the need for his team to improve stating, "There is no room for pessimism, everything is still in our hands."

However, the task ahead for Croatia is daunting. They need a sure win against Albania who are in the same boat. Albania have shown they can be a tough opponent. If Croatia fail to secure a win or at least a point against Albania, their chances of progressing to the knockout stages will be severely diminished.

Especially considering they have a tough final group match against Italy looming. Croatia and Albania are the two teams currently sitting at the bottom of their group. That's why The Croatia-Albania clash on June 19 promises to be a crucial encounter with both teams desperate to keep their Euro 2024 dreams alive.

For Croatia, it is a must-win situation, and they will need to find a way to bounce back from their opening defeat if they are to avoid an ignominious end to their golden generation's international journey. Going into this match, they have the odds in their favour.