Croatia vs Gibraltar Prediction & Betting Tips (12 October)

Croatia and Gibraltar meet in their first competitive clash for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with both sides entering the match under contrasting circumstances.

Croatia, fresh off a disappointing Nations League exit to France, will be eager to reassert their dominance in Group L. Manager Zlatko Dalic still commands a squad brimming with experience and talent, though injuries have forced some reshuffling. Mateo Kovacic is sidelined following surgery, while Toni Fruk and Luka Sucic are also unavailable. Despite these setbacks, Croatia’s depth remains formidable, with Ivan Perisic, Andrej Kramaric, and Martin Baturina expected to lead the charge. Their recent form has been patchy, with only one win in their last five matches, but the pedigree of finishing third in the 2022 World Cup remains a powerful motivator.

Gibraltar, meanwhile, are navigating a tough qualifying campaign. After a 4-0 loss to the Czech Republic, they sit bottom of the group with no points and a goal difference of minus seven. Head coach Julio Ribas has seen his side struggle to create chances, registering just two shots on target across two group games. However, their home form at Estadio Do Algarve offers a glimmer of hope, with two wins and three draws in their last six outings. The squad, led by goalkeeper Bradley Banda and defenders Louie Annesley and Bernardo Lopes, will need to be at their most disciplined to contain Croatia’s attacking threats.

While Croatia are clear favorites, Gibraltar’s resilience at home could make this a tighter affair than expected. With Dalic’s men still finding rhythm and Gibraltar keen to avoid another heavy defeat, the match may unfold with more balance than the rankings suggest. Our prediction leans toward a competitive 2-1 victory for Croatia—an outcome that respects Gibraltar’s defensive grit while acknowledging the superior firepower of the Blazers.

• Summary: Croatia is going head to head with Gibraltar starting on 12 Oct 2025 at 18:45 UTC at Stadion Varteks stadium, Varaždin city, Croatia. The match is a part of the World Cup Qual. UEFA L .
• Referee: Oleksiy Derevinskyi
• Croatia Feedinco Rating: 7.42
• Gibraltar Feedinco Rating: 6.54