The first of the World Cup quarter-finals sees tournament favourites Brazil go head-to-head with 2018 runners-up Croatia on Friday afternoon. We’ve previewed the upcoming tie and taken a look at Croatia’s chances of progressing.
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Croatia vs Brazil
Friday 9th December, 3pm
Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan
Croatia vs Brazil Football Preview
Croatia were unable to see off Japan in 120 minutes and needed penalties to advance to the quarter-finals. They will have to recover quickly as they prepare for a mammoth clash with the World Cup’s most successful nation, Brazil.
Brazil’s first half hammering of South Korea meant they could take the foot off the gas in the second half and rest important players. This could be a key factor in the tie, with Brazil legs likely to be far fresher. Tite’s side were hugely impressive in the round of 16, with their abundance of attacking flair on full display. This creativity in the final third will be crucial if they are to beat a defensively dogged Croatia.
Croatia weren’t particularly good on the ball in their last outing. They instead relied on their physicality, opting to target crosses and set pieces in an attempt to bully Japan. The Brazilians will not be bullied. As long as they match Croatia physically, they won’t be caused too many issues at the back and have more than enough class to carve open their defence.
With the players at their disposal, you have to fancy Brazil to book a spot in the semi-final. Russia 2018 might have been Croatia’s last realistic chance of lifting the trophy, with plenty of star individuals having retired or suffering the effects of four extra years in the legs.
Croatia vs Brazil Football Odds
Brazil are huge 1.39 favourites ahead of the tie to win in 90 minutes, with Croatia 8.90 underdogs and a draw priced at 4.75. Both teams to score is at 2.14, with either nation to keep a clean sheet at 1.71. You can double your stake with under 2.5 goals (2.00), whilst Neymar (4.50), Vinicius Jr. (6.00) and Richarlison (6.00) lead the odds to open the scoring.
Quarter-Final Betting Tips
Brazil to win to nil – 2.08
We just can’t see this Croatia side creating many chances, and Brazil are capable of matching them aerially. They won’t run riot as they did against South Korea, but Brazil should dominate and get the job done in 90 minutes.
Vinicius Jr. anytime goalscorer – 2.75
Cutting in off the left wing, Vinicius Jr. has been a constant threat throughout the World Cup. His timing is elite and his movement between the full back and centre-half is incredibly effective. He also pops up on the back post from time to time. Brazil have a serious talent on their hands.
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