Finland vs Croatia Predictions & Betting Tips, Match Previews

Finland were on the end of another disappointing result in midweek as they twice lost the lead in Iceland to lose the game 3-2 courtesy of a 95th minute Sigurosson goal, which came after a 90th minute Finnbogason equaliser to make for a spectacular end to the match.

This followed on from their disappointing home draw against newly formed side Kosovo in the World Cup qualifying opener, and they are now without a win in their last 11 matches in all competitions.

They have lost seven of their last nine as well, scoring in just three of the matches and conceding a total of 20 goals to make for a pretty awful run of form. They’re not much better at home either, with one win, four draws, and seven defeats in their last 12 matches.

Croatia, despite being without their two key midfielders Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic, showed Finland how it should be done against Kosovo. Mario Mandzukic led the visiting Croatians to a 6-0 hammering of Kosovo, netting three himself as they scored three goals in each half.

This made it four points from a possible six for Croatia after their 1-1 draw with Turkey last month. They are now top of their group on goal difference ahead of Iceland, and they will feel confident in their ability to top this group and make it to Russia in two years time.

Croatia’s midweek victory made it nine wins, three draws, and one defeat in their last 13 outings in all competitions, with their only failing being the extra time loss to Portugal as they were dumped out of Euro 2016.

Finland’s goal-scoring record is pretty bleak. They have only scored three goals in their last eight home matches and are facing a Croatia side who aren’t afraid of keeping a clean sheet. The visitors have kept the opposition at bay in five of their last ten on the road, so backing Croatia to Win to Nil at 8/5 looks good alongside a 2-0 correct score prediction at 6/1.