Russia vs Croatia
It’s day 24 in Russia and the last quarter final match kicks off at Sochi’s Fisht Olympic Stadium. Football fans across the world are eagerly waiting for 11 pm (PST) to find out whether Russia will give yet again another surprising performance or will Croatia break the winning tradition of host nations at the World Cup.
ROAD TO QUARTER FINALS:
Russia finished second in their group after netting eight times in two games against Saudi Arabia and Egypt before being thrashed 3-0 by Uruguay. Then they produced an almighty upset against the heavy weight Spain, beating them on penalties.
With the exception of Belgium, Croatia is the only team left in the competition that has won all games. With the highlight coming against Messi’s Argentina, Croatia topped group D before edging out Denmark on penalties in a tough pre-quarter final show down.
HEAD TO HEAD:
Russia 0 – Draw – 2 – Croatia – 1
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Creating an upset by kicking out the 2010 champions, Cherchesov’s Russia is now beginning to believe in the seemingly impossible. They will step down in the field with high morale and passionate backing from the home crowd. Russia might be tempted to attack more than they did against Spain which would leave more space at the back to exploit.
Croatia are expected to dominate the game through possession with Modric and Rakitic dictating play.
PREDICTED LINEUPS:
Russia XI: Akinfeev; Fernandes, Kutepov, Ignashevich, Kudryashov; Zobnin, Gazinskiy; Samedov, Golovin, Cheryshev; Dzyuba
Croatia XI: Subasic; Vrsaljko, Lovren, Vida, Strinic; Rakitic, Brozovic, Rebic, Modric, Perisic; Mandzukic
PREDICTION:
Russia 1 – Croatia 2
Maryam Ahmad Kiyani
Class of 2021