Croatia are probably slight favourites going into this match. Having scored more goals than the Danes and topping group D, the Blazers look to be the team to progress. However, do not count out the Danes. They may have only scored twice so far in this competition, but have only conceded once. They will be looking for midfielder Christian Eriksen to work his magic.
Denmark v Croatia World Cup Preview: Eriksen holds the key
Who can help Denmark progress?
Eriksen is the greatest Dane
The obvious answer to this is Christian Eriksen. The Tottenham Hotspur midfielder scored a cracking goal against Australia in the group stages. Though frustrated against France, Eriksen will be looking to inspire his team with a stronger, more attacking run of play against Croatia.
The Danes will be hoping to give the Spurs midfielder the service he needs to both create and score. He will face an organised Croat defence. Eriksen has been on sparkling form so far, and if given space, is a constant danger. His accuracy of both incisive passes, and long-range shots on goal are Denmark’s best weapon.
The Danish defence will need to raise their game if they hope to progress. Mathias Jørgensen and Andreas Christensen could both prove vital in stopping Croatia in the final third of the pitch.
Right at the back, and holding a very impressive record is their first choice goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Before the match against Australia, Schmeichel had played an impressive 534 minutes without conceding.
Who can help Croatia progress?
Modrić is the Real deal for Croatia
Captain Luka Modrić will again look to inspire his team to move into the next round. Real Madrid star Modrić has been outstanding for his country thus far. The head-to-head between the teams is at an even two all, however, Croatia have been victorious in the bigger events.
Forward Ante Rebić joined his captain in scoring against Argentina to secure their position in this round. Rebić has sparked interest from Premier League clubs Everton and Spurs. Both will be monitoring his performance in the tournament.
Goalkeeper Danijel Subašić will be the last line of defence for Croatia. So far, Subašić has only conceded once, and like Schmeichel, it was from the penalty spot. The Croatian has been immense between the sticks. It will be interesting to see which of the ’keepers will come out on top.
Denmark have a good chance to make the next round, but Croatia will certainly be favourites to progress.
Through to the last 16 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 Everything can happen now! 🇩🇰 #ce10 @fbbillederdk https://t.co/jIR01viK8G
— Christian Eriksen (@ChrisEriksen8) June 26, 2018
