Croatia Team World Cup Preview and Prognostication

The Croatia soccer team has the tough task of opening up the 2014 World Cup against the host team, Brazil. The good news for Croatia is that the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout round and Croatia definitely has a chance against the other two teams in Group A.

The top player for Croatia is Mario Mandzukic, 27 who averaged more than a goal per game in 2013 for Bayern Munich. He was the top scorer for Croatia in qualifying with four goals. The question for Croatia is how much they will see of Mandzukic because he got a red card in the qualifying win over Iceland.

Croatia is coached by former captain Niko Kovac who took over in October. Kovac led the team to a playoff win over Iceland. Kovac played for Croatia when they made the World Cup in 2002 and in 2006. Kovac realizes that his team is in for a tough time against Brazil but he likes the big stage. “I am happy that we are playing the opening match of the World Cup, we will have top preparations for that big game against Brazil. The whole world will watch our match.” Kova said, “Small Croatia against big Brazil. We will do everything to make our nation happy. We are coming to Brazil to play top football, but I will not predict now if we will go through. I am sure our players will give their best there.”

Croatia did really well in their first world Cup back in 1998 but it didn’t go so well in 2002 or in 2006 as they failed to get out of the group stage. They should have a decent chance to get out of the group stage this time as they will be favored against Mexico and Cameroon.

Croatia World Cup Schedule – Group Stage

June 12th – Croatia vs. Brazil

June 18th – Croatia vs. Cameroon

June 23rd – Croatia vs. Mexico