Croatia set to play in the World Cup for the 5th time and have been drawn alongside Argentina, Nigeria and Iceland in what is looking like a tough group.
Coach Zlatko Dalic has named a 24-man preliminary squad but one player is expected to face a cut from the group. Appointed caretaker manager in October 2017, Dalic, made his job permanent in November before delivering play-off passage.
Croatia have a good squad with a mix of experienced players and young talent but they need to click as a unit to succeed in Russia. They will begin their World Cup journey against Nigeria on June 16 before taking on two-time champions Argentina, followed by a game against Iceland.
Let us have a look at the strongest line-up that Croatia could field at the World Cup.
Strongest Croatia XI for World Cup
Manager: Zlatko Dalic
Formation: 4-3-3
Danijel Subasic (GK)
Subasic is Croatia’s undisputed No.1 in goal and that’s not going to change in the World Cup.
Vedran Corluka (RB)
Having attained full fitness which once looked improbable, Corluka is a warrior and will slot in at right-back.
Domagoj Vida (CB)
A hard-tackling defender, Vida boasts of ample experience, having played at the top level for so many years. His aggressive and spirited attitude will be required if Croatia are to make waves in Russia.
Dejan Lovren (CB)
Lovren has markedly improved for Liverpool in 2018. However, he still remains prone to mistakes.
Sime Vrsaljko (LB)
Vrsaljko is an attacking full-back who is always willing to maraud forward and contribute to the team’s attack. Primarily a right-back, he is also adept at playing on the left-hand side of the defence.
Milan Badelj (CDM)
Badelj is an accomplished midfielder with excellent technique and eye-catching passing abilities. Known for his tackling and high work-rate, the Fiorentina man’s presence will allow the likes of Modric and Rakitic to excel.
Ivan Rakitic (RCM)
Rakitic would bring a lot of energy and thrust to the midfield. His influence alongside Luka Modric will determine how far Croatia would go in the tournament.
Luka Modric (LCM)
Modric is a complete midfielder and Croatia would need him to be at his best. He is a classy player with exceptional technique and creativity.
Ivan Perisic (LW)
Just like Modric, Ivan Perisic is a player who has the ability to turn the tables in a flash. Perisic’s work-ethic is phenomenal as he hardly gets tired and always looks to create things for the team. Blessed with fantastic dribbling and crossing abilities, the Inter Milan ace could be a player to watch out for in Russia.
Ante Rebic (RW)
Strong, powerful and clinical, Rebic would be incisive on the right for Croatia.
Mario Mandzukic (ST)
Powerful and clinical, Mario Mandzukic should lead Croatia’s attack on Russian soil.
