We are now into the business end of the FIFA World Cup as Brazil take on Croatia as they continue to edge even closer to the title. This quarterfinal clash will take place at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan on Friday.
Brazil have been brilliant in the tournament so far and they flexed their muscles once again when they beat South Korea 4-1 in the last round. They look to be a side that wants to entertain and hence, it could well be a tricky proposition for Croatia.
FIFA World Cup Croatia vs Brazil Teams
Croatia
Ahead of this match, Croatia do not need to make too many changes. Borna Sosa, who missed the last match against Japan, could be back for this game.
Josip Stanisic, however, is still struggling with his muscle injury, and he might not be fit enough to take part in this match. Both Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are just one yellow card away from suspension, and hence, they need to be careful in this game.
Croatia Predicted Starting XI: Livakovic; Juranovic, Lovren, Gvardiol, Sosa; Kovacic, Brozovic, Modric; Kramaric, Petkovic, Perisic
Brazil
In this match, Brazil will not be able to avail the services of Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles for the rest of the campaign. Apart from these players, Alex Sandro is also a doubt for this game with a hip injury.
And then, there are Bruno Guimaraes, Eder Militao, and Fred who are one yellow card away from receiving a suspension.
Brazil Predicted Starting XI: Alisson; Militao, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Danilo; Casemiro, Paqueta; Raphinha, Neymar, Vinicius Jr; Richarlison
Croatia vs Brazil Head-to-Head and key numbers
- This will be the fifth match between both the sides. While Brazil has three wins to their name, Croatia have won a couple of matches. One match ended in a draw.
- Neymar is two goals away from surpassing Pele as his nation’s all-time leading goalscorer.
- Croatia have been brilliant in World Cup penalty shootouts – they have won all three that they have been involved in.
- Brazil has been eliminated from the World Cup five times since 1990 by European opponents.
Croatia vs Brazil Fantasy Football Team
Captain: Neymar Jr
Vice Captain: Richarlison
Goalkeeper: Alisson
Defenders: Danilo, Marquinhos, Silva, Gvardiol
Midfielders: Casemiro, Kovacic, Modric
Forwards: Richarlison, Neymar Jr, Vinicius Jr
Croatia vs Brazil: Live streaming, details
Kick-off date: Friday, December 9
Kick-off time: 8:30 PM IST
Venue: Education City Stadium
Live Telecast: Sports18 SD/HD
Live streaming: JioCinema (App & Website)
Croatia vs Brazil Prediction
Brazil have been in roaring form in the tournament so far, they have gone for an all-attacking option and have the players to stretch Croatia. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic could well stack his defense, but Brazil have the powerhouse to win this match 3-1.