FOOTBALL
World Cup Predictions: Brazil vs Croatia
Brazil face Croatia next on their path to the fabled ”Hexa.”
The Latin Americans come to the quarterfinal on the back of an effortless 4-1 round-of-16 triumph over South Korea.
Croatia also took on an Asian opponent, but they had a far more difficult challenge.
They had to come from behind to salvage a 1-1 draw against Japan in regulation time. A brilliant Dominik Livaković performance between the sticks brought the Chequered Ones to the final eight.
Croatia are now on a 10-match unbeaten run and they have lost only once since crashing out of the Euro 2020 round-of-16. But Zlatko Dalić knows that his team will face a sterner test than any when Croatia come across a highly spirited Brazil.
Croatia did not bring their best shooting boots to Qatar. Other than the Canada match, they have failed to impress as an attacking unit. However, defensively they have been rock solid.
They have only conceded twice so far. So, they will bank on their defensive resilience to neutralise Brazil’s firepower.
On the contrary, Brazil have been playing the electrifying, free-flowing style of football that everyone expects of them.
They did lose their final group match to Cameroon, but they had already qualified for the knockouts and only a lack of clinical finishing deprived them of a perfect nine points out of nine scenario.
Tite’s men seemed desperate to compensate for their barren spell of ninety minutes against Cameroon when they took the pitch against South Korea on Monday night.
They went four-nil up before the first-half whistle went off. So, Paik Seung-ho’s second-half strike was merely a consolation goal for the Taegeuk Warriors.
Head to Head
Just as Brazil have a European hoodoo, so do Croatia.
In their case, they have won just one of their last five meetings with South American sides.
That happened when they stunned Argentina 3-0 win four years ago.
They never beaten Brazil, with one draw and three losses from their four meetings.
Team News
Borna Sosa had to watch Croatia’s penalty shootout win against Japan from the hotel room.
The left-back has recovered from illness and hopes to make it to the starting XI against Brazil.
Josip Stanišić, who plays on the other flank of the defence, also missed out on the Japan match as he was nurturing a muscular problem. He is yet to be declared fit to play.
Alex Sandro has not joined Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles on the flight back home, but the Juventus left-back continues to struggle with his injury.
Sandro was not involved in the last two games and was seen training alone after the South Korea match, implying his club colleague Danilo will deputise for him once again.
Neymar Jr. returned to action for Brazil against South Korea, but he is yet to fully recover from his ankle problem. But the Paris Saint-Germain ace will return to action as the playmaker behind Richarlison. Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha will provide the attacking threat from the flanks.
Our Prediction
Croatia could be a tough nut to crack, but Brazil should be able to come out on top of this tie.
Brazil’s attack is so good that they can make up for their defensive deficiency. We say 2-1 for Brazil.
Date: December 9
Kickoff: 8:30 PM IST
Venue: Education City Stadium
FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.
Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.
The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!
FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.
The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.
FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.
FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!
Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.
Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.
The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.
Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.
Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.
This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.
Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.
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