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Hamburg (Germany), Jun 18 (AP) Croatia faces Albania in their second match in Group B. Both teams lost their opening matches and can't afford another defeat if they want to keep hope alive of advancing from the group stage. Here's what to know: Match facts — The two Balkan teams have never met in a competitive match before.

Albania is playing in only its second European Championship after qualifying for the tournament in 2016. — Luka Modric's Croatia is looking to rebound from a confidence-bruising 3-0 loss to Spain in the group opener. Croatia is expected to control the game while Albania relies on its robust defense and quick counterattacks.



— Albania stunned defending champion Italy with an early goal but conceded two goals later in the game in the 2-1 loss on June 15. — Albania faces disciplinary charges for the behavior of its fans in the first game. UEFA says that included a “provocative message” allegedly displayed by fans, the throwing of objects, use of fireworks and a field invasion by a fan near the end of the game.

Team news — Croatia midfielder Nikola Vlasic didn't take part in the team's training session on Monday but is expected to be fit for Wednesday's match. Vlasic came on as a second-half substitute against Spain. — Albania striker Jasir Asani has an ankle injury and could be in doubt for the match.

However, the Albanian Football Federation said all players took part in training on Monday. — Both teams are treating the match as crucial for.

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