If you're wondering how to catch the Euro 2024 qualifying clash between Wales and Croatia, you've come to the right place. The game kicks off at 7:45pm on March 25th, 2023, but the coverage starts earlier. In Wales, you can tune in to S4C from 7:15pm, and for international viewers, Viaplay Sports 1 has you covered, though it requires a subscription. Don't have Viaplay? No worries, there's another way to watch the match live. Plus, if you prefer listening, BBC Radio has got you sorted. Curious about the key players and match predictions? Let's examine further.
Key Takeaways
- The match will be live on S4C from 7:15pm.
- Viaplay Sports 1 will broadcast the match from 7:35pm.
- S4C is available to viewers in Wales.
- Viaplay Sports 1 requires a subscription for access.
- Radio commentary is available on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and BBC Radio Cymru.
Match Date and Time
The highly anticipated match between Wales and Croatia kicks off at 7:45pm on Saturday, March 25th, 2023.
This match is a pivotal part of the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, where both teams aim to secure their spots in the upcoming championship.
As this is Wales' first match without their longtime talisman Gareth Bale, all eyes will be on how the team adapts to this new era.
Both Wales and Croatia are considered the main threats in Group D, alongside Turkey. This competitive dynamic adds an extra layer of excitement and significance to the match.
Make sure you note the date and time so you don't miss this key fixture in the European football calendar.
Kick-Off Details
As you prepare for this exciting fixture, the kick-off for Wales vs. Croatia is scheduled for 7:45pm on Saturday, March 25th, 2023. This match marks the beginning of Wales' Euro 2024 qualifying campaign and the first era without Gareth Bale.
Both teams are significant contenders in Group D, aiming for one of the top two spots to secure direct qualification for Euro 2024.
Wales will be without defenders Ben Davies and Wayne Hennessey.
Wales are priced at 9/2 to win, while Croatia are favorites at 4/7.
TV Channel Information
Catch the match live on Welsh language channel S4C starting at 7:15pm.
If you prefer an English broadcast, tune into Viaplay Sports 1, formerly known as Premier Sports, which will start coverage at 7:35pm.
Viaplay Sports isn't available on free-to-air channels in the UK, so you'll need a subscription. You can add Viaplay Sports to both new and existing Virgin Media and Sky TV packages.
Guarantee you have either a monthly or annual subscription to access this service. This arrangement gives you flexibility, but make sure to set it up in advance to avoid missing any action.
Enjoy the game with clear and thorough coverage on these channels.
Live Streaming Options
If you're looking to stream the Wales v Croatia match live, there are a few options available.
You can watch it on S4C or BBC iPlayer if you're in the UK, or use Viaplay if you have a subscription.
Make sure your subscriptions are up to date to enjoy the same quality coverage as the TV broadcast.
Official Broadcasters Coverage
You can catch the Wales vs. Croatia match live on S4C starting at 7:15pm or on Viaplay Sports 1 from 7:35pm with a subscription.
S4C offers Welsh-language coverage and is available to viewers in Wales.
In contrast, Viaplay Sports 1 provides a broader reach but requires a subscription.
The match time is 7:15pm on S4C and 7:35pm on Viaplay Sports 1.
The match is not available on free-to-air channels in the UK.
With these options, you have the flexibility to choose the platform that best suits your viewing needs.
Online Streaming Services
For those preferring to watch the match online, several streaming options are available to guarantee you don't miss Wales vs. Croatia.
Viaplay Sports will be streaming the match live, but you'll need a paid subscription to access it.
If you're in Wales, S4C offers a live stream in Welsh, available to viewers within the region.
BBC iPlayer may also provide a live stream, though this hasn't yet been confirmed.
Crucially, there are no free streaming options for this Euro 2024 qualifying match.
To make certain you're set, verify you have an active subscription to Viaplay Sports or access to S4C's live stream before the match begins.
Radio Broadcast
Catch all the live action and expert analysis of Wales vs Croatia on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and BBC Radio Cymru.
You can access these stations via DAB radio, TV packages, or the BBC Sounds app.
The commentary will provide live updates and in-depth analysis throughout the entire match, ensuring you don't miss a moment.
Best of all, there's no extra subscription required to tune in.
Follow the match online via the BBC website or the BBC Sounds app.
Stay connected and informed with every play and commentary detail.
Pre-Match Coverage
Before the Wales vs Croatia match, RadioTimes.com has you covered with expert predictions and key player analysis to get you ready for the game.
Tune in to the Radio Times Podcast for exclusive interviews with players and experts offering their insights.
You can also find a full TV and streaming guide on the Radio Times website to confirm you don't miss a moment of the action.
Key Players Analysis
Luka Modrić's ability to control the midfield will be crucial for Croatia, while Wales will depend on the youthful energy of Brennan Johnson and Dylan Levitt to spark creativity. Modrić's vision and passing can break down defenses, making him the linchpin of Croatia's strategy. In contrast, Johnson and Levitt's dynamic playstyles bring unpredictability to Wales' attack.
Croatia's defense, led by the experienced Dejan Lovren, will aim to neutralize Wales' offensive threats.
Wales captain Aaron Ramsey will need to inspire and lead by example, anchoring the midfield.
Croatia striker Andrej Kramarić, in top form, poses a significant threat to Wales' backline.
Wales will rely on their young talents to counter Croatia's veteran experience.
Expert Predictions Insight
Football analysts predict a closely contested match, with Croatia holding a slight edge over Wales because of their experience and depth. RadioTimes.com's experts highlight Croatia's slight favoritism but acknowledge Wales' potential notwithstanding their defensive injury woes. Key injuries to Ben Davies and Wayne Hennessey could hinder Wales' backline stability. Luka Modric is expected to play a pivotal role for Croatia, leveraging his extensive experience in midfield. Wales' manager, Robert Page, receives praise for integrating new talent, marking a transformative phase post-Gareth Bale. This game is seen as essential for both teams' aspirations to qualify directly for Euro 2024 from Group D.
| Team | Key Player | Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Wales | New Talents | Injuries to Davies, Hennessey |
| Croatia | Luka Modric | Pressure to qualify |
| Experts | Close Match | Croatia slight favorites |
| Preview | Defensive Issues | Transforming Phase |
Key Players to Watch
In this highly anticipated clash, keep an eye on Luka Modrić, whose experience and creativity in midfield will be pivotal for Croatia's success. His vision and passing abilities can penetrate any defense.
Besides Modrić, Mateo Kovačić will be indispensable in controlling the tempo for Croatia.
For Wales, the absence of Gareth Bale means younger stars like Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson need to step up. Aaron Ramsey, the veteran midfielder, will orchestrate Wales' attacking play while Daniel James' pace will be a significant threat on the counter-attack.
Key players to watch:
- Luka Modrić (Croatia): Experienced midfield maestro
- Mateo Kovačić (Croatia): Dynamic midfielder
- Aaron Ramsey (Wales): Veteran orchestrator
- Daniel James (Wales): Pacy winger
Team Form and Stats
How have recent performances shaped the expectations for Wales and Croatia in this pivotal matchup?
Wales have shown solid form, winning 3 of their last 5 competitive matches and scoring 7 goals. Their top scorer, Kieffer Moore, has netted 3 goals recently.
Croatia have been even more impressive, winning 4 out of their last 5 fixtures and scoring 10 goals. Luka Modrić leads Croatia with 2 goals in this period.
Both teams have managed 2 clean sheets each, but Croatia's defensive record is stronger.
Wales have a 60% win rate in their last 5 games, while Croatia boasts an 80% win ratio. These stats suggest a tightly contested match, with Croatia slightly favored.
Betting Odds
For those looking to place a bet, Croatia are the favorites to win the match at 1/1.
If you're thinking about supporting Wales, they're priced at 14/5 to secure the victory.
Meanwhile, a draw between the two teams is available at 12/5.
The odds provided come from bet365 in partnership with Radio Times.
For new customers, bet365 offers a promotion where you can claim £30 in free bets when you bet £10.
The key betting odds are:
- Croatia win: 1/1
- Wales win: 14/5
- Draw: 12/5
- New customer offer: £30 in free bets with a £10 bet
These odds indicate that Croatia is the favored team, but anything can happen in football.
Match Predictions
When thinking about match predictions, consider the impact of key players, recent team form, and tactical approaches.
Croatia's experienced squad might give them an edge, but Wales' resilience and home advantage can't be underestimated.
Analyzing these factors will help you understand the dynamics that could influence the outcome.
Key Players' Impact
Luka Modrić's mastery in midfield will be pivotal for Croatia, while Wales will look to their emerging stars to fill the void left by Gareth Bale. Modrić's ability to control the game's tempo and possession can tilt the match in Croatia's favor.
In contrast, Wales will rely on young talents like Brennan Johnson and Daniel James to provide the attacking spark. Croatia's defense, led by Dejan Lovren and Josko Gvardiol, will face a stern test against Wales' counter-attacks.
Key players to watch:
- Luka Modrić: Controls the tempo for Croatia.
- Brennan Johnson: A rising star for Wales.
- Dejan Lovren: Imperative for Croatia's defense.
- Joe Allen: Provides stability in Wales' midfield.
Recent Team Form
How will recent form influence the outcome of Wales versus Croatia in this pivotal UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier?
Croatia's recent form shows strength, with three consecutive wins, including a solid 2-1 victory over Turkey.
On the other hand, Wales have struggled, securing just one win in their last five matches, a narrow 1-0 against Latvia. This disparity in recent performances suggests that Croatia might have a slight edge.
Although the head-to-head record is evenly matched at two wins apiece, the bookmakers favor Croatia, pricing them at 1/1 compared to Wales' 14/5.
Given these factors, expect a close and competitive match, with Croatia's recent momentum potentially tipping the scales in their favor.
Tactical Approaches Analyzed
In this highly anticipated clash, Croatia's possession-based 4-3-3 system will likely dictate the tempo, while Wales' compact 5-3-2 formation aims to capitalize on counter-attacks. Croatia will rely on Luka Modrić's experience to control the game, focusing on maintaining high possession.
Conversely, Wales will look to exploit the spaces left by Croatia's attacking full-backs using the pace of their wingers.
High pressing from both teams could create a cagey and evenly matched affair.
Croatia's aerial advantage in set-pieces might challenge the Welsh defense.
Wales' counter-attacking strategy hinges on swift changes of play and exploiting defensive lapses.
The match outcome may depend on clinical finishing and capitalizing on opponent mistakes.
Understanding these tactics will help you appreciate the game's strategic depth.
