Croatia announce starting XI to face Nigeria in Russia

Croatia announce starting XI to face Nigeria in Russia

Ibitoye Shittu
updated at April 12, 2023 at 7:49 PM

- Croatia have named their first squad that will face the Super Eagles at the World Cup

- The two teams will meet on Saturday, June 16 in their first game in Russia

- Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic and Real Madrid midfielder Modric will face the Eagles

Croatia who are the Super Eagles of Nigeria first opponents at the 2018 FIFA World Cup have named their first eleven squad that will face Nigeria on Saturday, June 16.

According to the report by Croatian website, Index.hr, coach Zlatko Dalic will put striker Mario Mandzukic in front against the Super Eagles of Nigeria

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic and Real Madrid star Luka Modric will be in the midfield for Croatia in what is expected to be a tough battle.

Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic will miss out on starting berths for the fixture against the Super Eagles.

Croatia first XI against Super Eagles

Goalkeeper: Subasic Danijel

Defenders: Vrsaljko, Vida, Lovren, Strinic

Midfielders: Rebic, Rakitic, Modric, Perisic

Striker: Mario Mandzukic

The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Croatia will face on Saturday, June 16, in Kaliningrad which will start 8pm Nigerian time.

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Earlier, Legit.ng had reported how Nigeria wrapped up their preparations towards the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia against Czech Republic on a losing note.

Tomas Kalas' first half goal ensured the Super Eagles lost their second straight game in their build up as they go into the final phase of their build up.

The three time African Champions could have conceded more in the first 45 minutes of the game for saves from Francis Uzoho.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Do You Think Super Eagles Have a Chance? | Legit.ng TV

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Ibitoye Shittu
Editor- Local Desk
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