4) Croatia
A team full of talented players, Croatia haven’t done well in recent FIFA tournaments. They performed below par in the World Cup 2014, and had finished third in their group behind Brazil and Mexico. However, they could well turn the tides this time, if they perform to their potential.
They had a good Qualifying campaign, finishing 2nd with 20 points, 4 points behind group leaders Italy. They drew both their matches against Italy, which is a testimonial of how good a team they are. With a plethora of skilled players in their side, they will definitely be a contender to qualify for the knockouts, from a Group which has Spain, Turkey and the Czech Republic.
Ivan Perisic was the leading goal scorer in their qualifying campaign with 6 goals and he will be expected to replicate his form in the main draw. Along with Perisic, they will have the experience of Mario Mandzukic up front and Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric in the midfield.
Modric, fresh from winning the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid will want to add another piece of silverware by the end of this season. Croatia’s strength will be their midfield, as they have plenty of quality players to play that position.
Expect them to at least reach the Quarter Finals.
