Croatia And Italy Clash In Leipzig

Croatia vs Italy: Defending Champions Face Early Euro 2024 Exit

Croatia and Italy Clash in Leipzig

Defending champions Italy face a stern test of their credentials when they take on Croatia in Leipzig on Monday, with both sides looking to avoid an early exit from Euro 2024.

Italy, who won their first European Championship since 1968 at Wembley last summer, have endured a difficult start to their title defense, losing their opening match against Turkey and then drawing with Switzerland.

Meanwhile, Croatia, runners-up at the 2018 World Cup, have also struggled to find their best form, drawing their first match against Austria and then losing to England in their second.

Monday's match is therefore a must-win for both sides, with the loser likely to be eliminated from the competition.

Italy coach Roberto Mancini is expected to make several changes to his team, with Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini and AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali both in contention to start.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic is also likely to make changes, with Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Marcelo Brozovic a possible starter.

The match is set to be a close and exciting affair, with both sides desperate to avoid an early exit from the tournament.

The result of this match will have a major impact on the rest of the tournament, with the winner likely to qualify for the knockout stages and the loser facing an early exit.

Aussie soccer fans can watch a Croatia vs Italy live stream via Optus Sport which is showing the whole of Euro 2024 It costs 24.99 AUD per month