Croatia have seen change, but can they make it work?
After Ante Čačić was sacked in favor of the relatively inexperienced Zlatko Dalić, Croatia have played just 5 games. They have also lost long-time captain Darijo Srna, who retired from the national team after Croatia were eliminated in the round of 16 by Portugal in the Euros.
Hence, this Croatia team is young, and does not have much experience in the big international tournaments. But they have the talent, and a lot of potential. If they can realize this potential at the World Cup, Croatia can go far.
Between the sticks will be veteran goalkeeper Danijel Subašić, who was solid at the Euros. The defense will consist of Dejan Lovren and Vedran Ćorluka, who was a revelation at the back in France two years ago.
Ivan Strinić will protect the left flank. On the right, Atlético Madrid full-back Šime Vrsaljko will start, succeeding Darijo Srna as the undisputed starter on the right. But Croatia’s biggest weapon is its star-studded midfield.
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Zlatko Dalić is expected to select a three-man midfield, consisting of play-maker Luka Modrić, attacking midfielder Mateo Kovačić and defensive midfielder Ivan Rakitić.
This trio will be backed up by versatile play-maker Marcelo Brozović and experienced defensive midfielder Milan Badelj. Dalić will also have another option in the form of the 26-year Filip Bradarić.
The Croatian midfield will be the difference between a successful World Cup and an unsuccessful one. But the attack will not be weak. It will be led by towering center forward Mario Mandžukić, who will be appearing at his 4th major international tournament for his country.
Ivan Perišić will be occupying the left winger role, while Nikola Kalinić is expected to compete with Ante Rebić for a spot on the right. The attack will have able backups in the form of young winger Marko Pjaca and prolific forward Andrej Kramarić.
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If Zlatko Dalić can get the best out of his players, Croatia have the ability to go a long way in the World Cup. But it remains to be seen whether the players can gel under a new manager in such a transition phase.