[divider]Croatia[/divider]
This will be the second time in history that the Balkan side have booked their place in the semi-finals of the World Cup. They beat hosts Russia 4-3 on penalties after a nervy match that ended in a 2-2 draw after 120 minutes of open play.
Advantages
With 10 goals scored in 5 matches, scoring is clearly not a problem for this group of players. Also, they are not reliant on any one player to produce the goods with a total of 9 goalscorers on the charts! Similarly, they do not rely on a single player to come up with assists with 6 players contributing to the team’s assists.
The Croatians are able to keep possession and pass circles around their opponents with their team’s overall technical superiority as seen in their match against Russia. They dominated the match with 62% of the ball and an impressive pass accuracy of 82%.
They have a strong unit – technically, physically and mentally – and showed nerves of steel to break Russia’s lead within 90 minutes and finish the game in penalties.
Lastly, the creative combination of Rakitic and Modric together with the force of Kovacic and Perisic makes their midfield a very potent weapon. With Mandzukic lurking upfront, they have an experienced campaigner who can hurt an inexperienced backline.
Room for Improvement
The Croatian defense let Russia have 7 shots at goal during their match. Goalkeeper Subasic couldn’t stop 2, but managed to deal with the other 5. This over reliance on their veteran keeper could lead to their downfall in their next match. They can’t afford England that many chances at goals, especially if the forward’s name is Harry Kane.
[divider]England[/divider]
The football song “Three Lions” has managed to top the Spotify charts with over 1 millions plays, keeping Drake off the top spot on the Spotify UK’s charts. So, now the question begs, is football coming home? England has advanced to their first semi-final since Italy 1990 and will fight until the final whistle to get in to the finals.
Advantage
24 year old goalkeeper Pickford was rightfully selected as man on the match against Sweden. His vocal presence and outstanding saves kept his team alert and more importantly – alive. This young man is brimming with confidence and will be a key player for the Three Lions against a dangerous Croatia side.
England has been operating with a three man defense with two wing backs providing support when needed. Walker, Stones and Maguire have been impressive so far this tournament, allowing only 4 goals in 5 matches. They only afforded Sweden 3 shots on target and blocked 6 others. Not to mention the defenders have a knack of scoring goals from aerial situations with 3 goals between them.
The entire 5-man midfield has been a revelation this campaign. Their hard work and willingness to cover for each other has been the heartbeat of the team. With the likes of Trippier, Dier, Young and Henderson running the miles, it leaves space for flair players Lingard and Dele to work their magic.
Potential Golden Boot winner Harry Kane has racked up 6 goals so far this tournament. His off the ball movement and eye for goal has made him indispensable to the manager. He will be looking to increase his tally against Croatia and take England to the finals.
Room for Improvement
If you’ve watched the match against Sweden, it is quite evident that England has yet to find a style of play that defines them. The match was draggy for most parts and the energy levels were not what fans would have expected for a quarter-final. England really needs to improve their sharpness, movement and ability to control a game if they want to stand a chance against Croatia.
Sterling would also do well to finish the chances that come by his way. The forward has missed a good number of clear opportunities during this campaign and that could prove costly if he continues his slump in front of goal. His overall gameplay is decent, using his speed to create space and chances for his teammates – however he needs to be doing more when presented with the prize of a World Cup goal.
Catch Croatia VS England on the 12th of July at 2am +8 GMT!