Montenegro vs Croatia Prediction & Betting Tips (17 November)

Montenegro enter this clash against Croatia with a mixed set of results in recent months, reflecting both resilience and inconsistency. In October, they managed a narrow 2-1 friendly win over Liechtenstein, but their World Cup qualifying campaign has been far less encouraging. Losses to Czechia and the Faroe Islands highlighted defensive vulnerabilities, while their September defeat in Zagreb against Croatia by four goals to nil was particularly damaging to morale. More recently, Montenegro did secure a 2-1 victory away to Gibraltar in November, with goals from Vasilije Adžić and Nikola Krstović, but the overall picture remains one of a team struggling to find consistency against stronger opposition. Coach Mirko Vučinić has emphasized the need for discipline and sharper finishing, yet the squad’s lack of depth compared to Europe’s elite sides continues to be exposed in high-stakes matches.

Croatia, by contrast, have been in commanding form and their recent performances underline why they remain one of Europe’s most reliable forces. In June, they demolished Gibraltar 7-0 and followed that up with a 5-1 win against Czechia, showcasing their attacking prowess. September brought a 4-0 victory over Montenegro, a result that reinforced their dominance in Group L. October saw them ease past Gibraltar again with a 3-0 scoreline, and in November they sealed qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a 3-1 win over the Faroe Islands in Rijeka. Goals from Joško Gvardiol, Petar Musa, and Nikola Vlašić ensured their place at the finals, marking Croatia’s seventh World Cup appearance. Zlatko Dalić’s side have combined experience, with veterans like Luka Modrić still orchestrating play, and emerging talents such as Gvardiol and Musa adding fresh energy to the squad.



The latest news surrounding both teams further sets the tone for this encounter. Montenegro’s federation has been focused on rebuilding confidence after their qualification hopes faded, with reports highlighting the need to give younger players more opportunities in competitive fixtures. Their recent win over Gibraltar was seen as a morale boost, but critics point to their inability to consistently score against stronger defenses. Croatia, meanwhile, have been celebrating their qualification with a game to spare, a testament to their efficiency and tactical maturity. Media coverage in the past two months has praised Dalić’s ability to blend generations, ensuring that Croatia remain competitive even as some of their older stars approach the twilight of their careers. The contrast in narratives is stark: Montenegro are fighting for pride and development, while Croatia are preparing for another deep run on the global stage.

Given the form and recent head-to-head record, expectations lean heavily towards Croatia asserting their superiority once again. Montenegro’s defensive lapses and lack of cutting edge in attack make them vulnerable against a side that has scored freely throughout qualifying. Croatia’s midfield control, defensive solidity, and clinical finishing suggest that they will dominate possession and create multiple scoring opportunities. With all factors considered, the most realistic prediction for this World Cup 2026 qualifier is a decisive Croatian victory, and the correct scoreline we anticipate is 0:3. This outcome reflects both Croatia’s consistency and Montenegro’s ongoing struggles, while also aligning with the trajectory of their recent encounters.