FIFA World Cup 2018: Most Important Players in Group D

Valencia v Barcelona - Copa del Rey Semi Final Second Leg
Messi and Rakitić, teammates for Barcelona, will face each other in Russia

#3 Croatia - Ivan Perišić

Croatia v Spain - Group D: UEFA Euro 2016
Ivan Perišić

Croatia, always considered dark horses, have underperformed in previous World Cups and were eliminated in the group stages at World Cups in 2002, 2006 and 2014.

This crop of Croatian talents might be nearing the end of their time at the top of the game as players like Vedran Ćorluka, Luka Modrić and Mario Mandžukić go to Russia on the wrong side of 30. This might be their last chance at a World Cup together, and helping them from the left of midfield will be Ivan Perišić.

The Inter Milan winger's two-footed play-making, along with his range of passing and chance creation will be indispensable to Zlatko Dalić's men, and will be key if they are going to live up to the title of dark horses in Russia.

Notable Mention: Andrej Kramarić

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