Brazil, however, could be even stronger in Friday’s last-eight clash with the 2018 runners-up as left back Alex Sandro should be available and they will be close to full-strength after a number of injury problems.
With talisman Neymar and key defender Danilo returning against South Korea after missing two games due to ankle problems, coach Tite had to improvise and started right back Danilo on the left of the defence.
Tite is hoping to field his first-choice team against Croatia with full backs Danilo and Sandro in their natural positions, sending versatile centre back Eder Militao back to the substitutes’ bench after impressive performances.
Neymar looked sharp in 80 minutes on the pitch against South Korea, scoring a goal and showing no signs that his right foot was bothering him.
He will have extra motivation against Croatia, as he is one goal away from equaling Pele’s record for the most goals scored for Brazil (77).
Neymar scored his 76th against South Korea and paid tribute to the 82-year-old former Brazil great, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, holding a banner in the middle of the pitch with “Pele” written on it.
After overcoming Japan on penalties on Monday following a 1-1 draw after extra time, Croatia face the huge task of facing Brazil and their five-man attack which blew away South Korea with four first-half goals.
Led by the experienced Luka Modric, Dejan Lovren, Ivan Perisic and Marcelo Brozovic, the 2018 finalists arrived in Qatar as one of the oldest teams there are concerns about the fitness and form of key stalwarts after the grueling 120- minute game against Japan.
Dalic said, “What I’ve seen so far, when you take a look at their players, their quality, skills and value, then it is indeed terrifying. We need to enter the match with much faith, self-confidence and looking for our chances, enjoy the occasion of playing Brazil, that’s it.”
