Croatia concluded their Euro 2024 preparations with an impressive 2-1 victory over Portugal in a friendly match on Saturday.
Zlatko Dalic’s team defeated the Euro 2016 champions in Oeiras, a suburb of Lisbon, sending a clear warning to their Group B rivals, Spain and Italy.
Portugal, managed by Roberto Martinez and considered among the tournament favorites, suffered only their second defeat in 13 matches under the Spaniard.
Martinez left talisman Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, and his side missed several opportunities to equalize in the second half.
“Today’s game had a negative result… we want to win, it’s the best way to grow, but today there are also positives to take,” said Martinez.
Portugal won all of their qualifying games but have lost in friendlies against Slovenia in March, and now Croatia.
“Winning against Croatia doesn’t make us good enough to win the tournament, losing doesn’t mean we will not qualify for the last 16,” continued Martinez.
“A friendly game is about preparation. Now we are stronger than before the game… this is international football.
“We lost, Croatia deserved it, but for us it was a test we needed.”
Croatia dominated the opening period against the subdued hosts, with veteran Luka Modric scoring his 25th international goal from the penalty spot after Vitinha brought down Mateo Kovacic.
Real Madrid midfielder Modric, 38, aims to end his career on a high note, as this is likely his last major international tournament.
Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol had two near misses, Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved attempts from Andrej Kramaric, and Ante Budimir headed off target.
Substitute Diogo Jota equalized for Portugal early in the second half, but Budimir quickly restored Croatia’s lead with a header after Mario Pasalic hit the crossbar.
Portugal intensified their efforts, with Rafael Leao and Joao Cancelo creating chances, but Croatia held on for their second friendly victory after defeating North Macedonia.
“It’s a great victory, it will give us confidence for the Euros,” Modric told Nova TV.
“Expectations are high, we have a very good team, a great atmosphere, desire, and enthusiasm.
“I hope we will play like this… only with this kind of game can we expect something big.”
Croatia will kick off the tournament against three-time champions Spain in Berlin next week.
Martinez’s team has one final friendly match against Ireland on Tuesday in Aveiro.
Portugal is favored to advance from Group F, which also includes the Czech Republic, Turkey, and Georgia.
Euro 2024 starts on June 14 in Germany.
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