Morocco vs Croatia: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head
This is the opening game of Group F
In Qatar, the football festival has already begun. How the tournament will play out has already been shown by the first few games. Teams must start off strong if they are to get beyond the first obstacle. On November 23, Croatia and Morocco will compete for their first victory. The teams have been performing pretty well lately, but in games with a lot on the line like the World Cup, the past is irrelevant.
Croatia came in second place in the 2018 World Cup, but they will be hoping to advance further this time. The majority of their players do play for renowned European powerhouses, yet Morocco may be this competition's biggest underdog. Other extremely excellent Moroccan players with the ability to severely hurt Croatia include Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi.
Kick off: 3:30pm (IST), 10:00am (GMT)
Morocco form (all comps): W-D-W-W-W
Croatia form (all comps): W-W-W-W-W
Players to Watch
Luka Modric
Luka Modric, the top player in Croatia, will command attention throughout the competition. The Madrid midfielder has accomplished this several times, but at his final World Cup, he ought to be at his best. The burden on him is less than it was at the 2018 World Cup because so many players now represent prominent European teams. However, Croatia's future may depend on his sorcery in the middle of the field.
Hakim Zyiech
Hakim Zyiech, the main midfielder for Morocco, will be the centre of attention, similar to Modric. The World Cup will be the ideal opportunity for the Chelsea star to make a case for himself, despite his lacklustre performance at the Club level. Because of his prowess at set pieces, he will probably be the pivotal player in the middle for all of Morocco's chances.
Team News
Morocco
As they prepare for their opening encounter of the competition, injuries have dogged Morocco. Ez Abde and Tarik Tissoudali won't be present, despite the fact that their primary striker Youssef En-Nesyri is healthy and available. The odds of Amine Harit are also limited.
Croatia
With Marcelo Brozovic back in full training and expected to be ready for selection, there is some relief in the Croatian dugout. Following a scare in a friendly match against Saudi Arabia, Domagoj Vida might possibly be available.
Predicted Lineup
Morocco Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Bounou, Mazraoui, Saiss, Aguerd, Hakimi, Amrabat, Ounahi, Amallah, Ziyech, En-Nesyri, Boufal.
Croatia Predicted Lineup (4-4-3):
Livakovic, Juranovic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa; Brozovic, Modric, Kovacic; Pasalic, Budimir, Perisic.
Where can I create my own squad?
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