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The Peninsula
Croatia face an uphill task in their bid to play the second successive World Cup final as they confront a huge Brazilian obstacle on their way in the quarter-finals.
The two sides will meet in the first last 8 game at the Education Stadium tomorrow, with 2018 runners-up Croatia hoping to give a strong challenge to Brazil, who are hot favourites to win their record-extending sixth world title.
Zlatko Dalic's men defeated Japan in penalties after a 1-1 draw while Tite's side stormed into the quarter-finals after a dominant 4-1 victory over South Korea, scoring all their goals in the first half.
Croatia defender Dejan Lovren said Brazil were favourites but his team was ready for the battle.
“They are a strong team with quality players, who can change the rhythm of the game,” the 33-year-old told reporters yesterday.
“We have no problem that they are favourites. We appreciate and respect everyone and that's how we will show ourselves on the field.”
Lovren added a combined effort will be needed from his side to stop the Brazilians.
“All eleven players will have to do that. They are a dangerous team, they have lot of individual quality but we are ready to fight.”
Croatia players during a training session. AFP
Meanwhile, midfielder Mateo Kovacic said Croatia must be at their best physically and technically against the Selecao.
“Brazil are favourites but we are concentrating on ourselves and on our game. We want to show our technical quality too, but we want to show our physical quality in every duel, every possession.”
“We are accustomed to very tough physical games in the Premier League and that's something that we want to show against Brazil,” said the Chelsea midfielder.
Speaking about Luka Modric, he said:“He is a captain, a leader and we are proud and privileged to have him. He is the most important player of this national team.”
Tomorrow's match will mark Croatia's third World Cup quarter-final in their sixth appearance in the tournament.
Dalic had earlier said Croatia can challenge Brazil adding his team is not“outsiders”.
“Brazil have self-confidence, a splendid atmosphere in the team, which is visible, as well as top players ... However, we will not give in,” he said on Tuesday.
“It is a great team, but I believe that we can challenge them, we need to be smart ... The match is not 50-50, but we are also not outsiders,” he added.