The Croatians made their way into the knockout rounds by winning back-to-back against Nigeria and Argentina, securing their position. With their place secured, they are trying to emulate the nation’s magical run at France 1998. But before that, they can have a say on who joins them in the next round.
Even a win is not enough for Iceland, as they keep an eye out for Argentina. Three of their players will also feel right at home: Sverrir Ingason, Ragnar Sigurdsson and Bjorn Sigurdarson, all will play at Rostov. Iceland has a habit of bouncing back from defeats, and its time which will tell whether they will be able to reach the Round of 16 or not. On the other hand, Croatia has achieved their first objective of reaching the last 16, giving them the perfect opportunity to rest some of their players following the superb win over the Argentinians. Coach Zlatko Dalic is well aware of Iceland’s strengths and will pull out a midfield strategy that he hopes will build the play, score goals and help the side top the group with a perfect nine points.
