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WORLD CUP OPENER | ||
| vs | CROATIA | ||
| FIFA RANKING 4 | FIFA RANKING 20 | ||
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| HOW THEY QUALIFIED |
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| BRAZIL As the host nation Brazil did not have to qualify for this world cup. They are the only nation to have taken part in every edition of the elite competition, Brazil have lifted the coveted Trophy on a record five occasions (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002) CROATIA Croatia put their fans through the emotional mill in their qualification campaign. The Balkan team looked to be cruising after winning five and drawing one of their first six games, but they then took just one point from the next 12 available, losing at home to Scotland (1-0) and Belgium (2-1). Their good start eventually laid the foundation for a second-place finish, two points ahead of Serbia but nine adrift of runaway leaders Belgium. |
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RECENT RESULTS |
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| BRAZIL | CROATIA | ||
| 05/03/14 - SOUTH AFRICA 0-5 BRAZIL 19/11/13 - BRAZIL 2-1 CHILE 16/11/13 - HONDURAS 0-5 BRAZIL |
19/11/13 - CROATIA 2-0 ICELAND 15/11/13 - ICELAND 0-0 CROATIA 11/10/13 - CROATIA 1-0 BELGIUM |
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| PLAYERS TO WATCH | |||
| BRAZIL Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline. |
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| CROATIA Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic. |
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