Croatia vs Canada – World Cup Group F: How they’re doing , injuries, predictions with both sides needing to win
CROATIA look to better the performance of their opener which saw them play out a goalless draw to Morocco.
The Vatreni surprised the world in 2018, making their way to the final in Russia.
However their campaign this year got off to a slow start as they were held to a draw by Morocco.
With big boys of the group Belgium still to play, Croatia will be looking to this game against Canada for three points to give them the best chance of making it to the knockout stages.
Meanwhile the North American side have already given a good account of themselves thus far but unfortunately have nothing to show for it.
SunSport takes a look ahead to the game with a preview and a scoreline prediction.
read more world cup news
How are they getting on?
Croatia: Played out a lifeless draw against African side Morocco, leaving little to be desired from the Croats.
Despite having the talent up top to do so, they struggled to break down the strong defensive block they faced.
Read the full Morocco vs Croatia match report…
Canada: In a complete contrast to Croatia, the Maple Leafs were much the better side against Belgium yet were unable to get the ball past the menacing figure of Thibaut Courtois.
John Herdman will be hoping to see a more clinical performance from his side in order to get some points on the board.
Read the full Belgium vs Canada match report…
Most read in Football
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
Any injuries to worry about?
Croatia: Torino’s Nikola Vlasic looks unlikely to feature after coming off at half time against Morocco due to a calf injury.
Other than that Zlatko Dalic has a fully fit side but could make some changes, especially to the frontline who failed to impress in the opening game.
Canada: All 26 players selected for the Canadians are fit to play leaving Herdman with plenty of options.
After a strong showing against Belgium however, it will be likely we see little to no changes to the side.
Who will be the star men?
Croatia: The 2018 Ballon D’or winner, Luka Modric, has always undoubtedly been the main attraction for the European outfit, controlling the play in the strong midfield three that also contains Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic.
Another player to keep an eye on is 20-year-old centre back Josko Gvardiol. The RB Leipzig defender has shown what quality he has this season and Croatia will be relying on him to solidify that back line.
Canada: The face of Canadian football Alphonso Davies proved his worth against Belgium, constantly making runs in behind and looking to create chances.
Lille striker Jonathan David will be looking to continue his goal scoring form for club this season, scoring nine goals before heading to Qatar.
Read More on The Sun
What’s the head-to-head?
The two nations have yet to face each other previously.
SunSport prediction
Croatia 1 Canada 2