2018 FIFA World Cup – Croatia vs Denmark Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Sunday 1st July, 19:00
Where? Nizhny Novgorod Stadium
What channel is it on? BBC
Where can I stream the match? BBC license holders can stream the match online via BBC iPlayer
Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/football-world-cup-2018-tickets/ca2171?afl=694JWFTART&gclid=CjwKCAjw3cPYBRB7EiwAsrc-ubpt4g60RCE1cxEY1qD29AUk7XLBVGrSrMV_EvR_BqvkoCzBoUdigRoCvlEQAvD_BwE
THE TEAM NEWS
CROATIA
- Croatia were one of just three teams to have a 100% winning record in the group stage which was impressive given the quality of opponents.
- Coach Zlatko Dalic rotated significantly in the final group match with Iceland but they still managed to win and produce a good performance.
- He will bring back all his regular starters here with the only decision to make in midfield but Brozovic should get the nod ahead of Badelj.
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):
Subasic
Vrsaljko, Lovren, Vida, Strinic
Rakitic, Brozovic
Perisic, Modric, Rebic;
Mandzukic
Unavailable: N. Kalinic
Doubtful: None
DENMARK
- Denmark played out a bore draw with France to seal their place in the Round of 16 but they will have to play better against in-form Croatia.
- Poulsen is back after suspension and is likely to return in place of Braithwaite on the right which may be Hareide's only change.
- Kvist has returned to Russia but is still a major injury doubt so Christensen may well play in midfield once again ahead of Schone.
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):
Schmeichel
Dalsgaard, M. Jorgensen, Kjaer, Larsen
Christensen, Delaney; Poulsen, Eriksen, Sisto
N. Jorgensen
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: Kvist
THE PREDICTION
The key to Denmark's success in getting this far has been in keeping their matches tight and they will approach this game cautiously too against the talented Croatian team. Do not expect many goals in this one for that reason so under 2.5 goals is tempting here.
