Croatia stand in the way of hosts Russia and a place in the World Cup semi-final on Saturday, as they face off in Sochi. Russia have the home advantage in Saturday’s quarter-final tie, with the nation still on a high following their dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Spain in the last 16. Croatia, meanwhile, came through a shootout of their own, seeing off Denmark following a nervy 1-1 draw.
Overview
Both teams came through tough battles in the Round of 16, in matches held only a few hours apart. Despite enjoying precious little of the ball against Spain, the Russians fought tooth and nail to protect their goal and eventually prevailed in a penalty shootout.
The Croatians were also taken to the wire by Denmark. Following a frenetic start during which both teams scored in the first five minutes, Zlatko Dalic’s men were forced to endure a prolonged test of their nerves as the match went into extra time before ultimately prevailing after spot kicks.
It remains to be seen which of the two teams recovers from their emotional exertions quickest. The Russians will be looking to draw on every ounce of support that their fervent fans can muster in order to overcome Croatia’s individual and collective talent.
Historical Match Record
Russia and Croatia have faced three times previously, with two of those ending goalless in qualifiers for Euro 2008; Croatia won the other meeting in November 2015, a 3-1 victory in a friendly.Croatia have scored as many goals in four matches at this year’s World Cup (8) as they did in six games in their previous two World Cup appearances in 2006 and 2014 combined.
Russia had 10 shots on target in their first two 2018 World Cup games – they have managed just two in their last two matches, with one of those a penalty (Artem Dzyuba v Spain). Ten of Croatia’s last 12 World Cup goals have come in the second halves of their games. Mario Mandzukic scored his third World Cup goal for Croatia against Denmark in the last round – only Davor Suker (6) has scored more for them at the World Cup.
Current Team News
Russia’s Yuri Zhirkov misses out with a calf problem, but Alan Dzagoev is back in contention after damaging his hamstring in the opening win over Saudi Arabia.
Ivan Strinic is expected to be available despite seemingly picking up an injury late in the win over Denmark, while Mateo Kovacic should also be fit following a shoulder issue.
Match Prediction
Russia are hanging in there. It was a remarkable result against Spain. Did they deserve it? No, but it is amazing what momentum can do and it will give them real belief here.
Croatia were such a disappointment against Denmark. There’s only so far that graft can get you. Rakitic, who has been the player of the tournament so far, dragging them through.
Possible Line-Up
Russia: Igor Akinfeev; Mario Fernandes, Ilya Kutepov, Sergey Ignashevich, Fedor Kudryashov; Roman Zobnin, Daler Kuzyaev; Aleksandr Samedov, Aleksandr Golovin, Denis Cheryshev; Artem Dzyuba
Croatia: Danijel Subasic; Sime Vrsaljko, Dejan Lovren, Domagoj Vida, Ivan Strinic; Ivan Rakitic, Marcelo Brozovic, Ante Rebic, Luka Modric, Ivan Perisic; Mario Mandzukic