2022 World Cup Quarterfinals: Croatia vs. Brazil Preview, Odds, Prediction

Croatia and Brazil are two world-class teams, but Selecao is an absolute favorite in this particular event. That’s hard to imagine when you have the runners-up from the previous World Cup in Russia across the field, but simply, Selecao looks furious and unstoppable right now. We’ve seen what they did to poor Korea in the round of 16, and to be honest, the Brazilians are looking sharp as ever. Meanwhile, Croatia “traditionally” won on penalties, as they do that frequently in the knockout stages of international competitions. 

Preview

Croatia (+800) won 3-1 on penalties against Japan, after 1-1 during 90 minutes. Again, we saw the Croats falling behind during the regular time, but they didn’t panic yet calmly waited for their chance to strike. Even though Japan had the initiative at certain moments, there was no rush or hurry among the players.

This was the tenth game in a row for Croatia without a defeat, and that needs to be respected because this team played the UEFA Nations League before, in a very tough group with France, Austria, and Denmark. After that, we saw them playing 0-0 in a group with Morocco and Belgium, and in between, beating Belgium. 

Croatia always plays slow and more or less dull football, without too much pace and attractive moves, but that’s how Modric and the boys in the midfield kill the rival’s rhythm and control the game. 

Brazil (-300) packed four goals inside the opening 45 minutes against South Korea, and there could be plenty more if they didn’t start to play around with the Korean defense. This was a mere display of their power, and a message to all other title contenders that they have to watch out for Selecao.

The attack was perfect. Yes, we know Korea isn’t the team to compare certain things with and draw conclusions, but four goals in the opening half are impressive against much weaker rivals. 

Richarlison is on fire, and Tottenham’s forward uses the slightest chance to score. Neymar is reserved, but that was due to his injury, while Vini holds the entire left flank alone. We also need to mention the defense, which didn’t allow a goal while playing competitive football (we aren’t counting the game against Cameroon and the second half against Korea because Brazil had no interest in playing that one 100%).

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Both teams are ready to play, as there are no suspensions or injuries on either side. As said, Neymar is perfectly fit and ready to play.

Head to Head Games

Brazil and Croatia have met four times so far, twice in the World Cup. In 2006 Brazil was better than the Croats, 1-0, in the group stage. Eight years later, Brazil and Croatia clashed also in the group stage, and Brazil won once again, 3-1 this time. That tournament was held in Brazil. 

The most recent matchup was in 2018, a friendly international before the World Cup, and Selecao once again won, 2-0. The fourth game took place in 2005, 1-1. 

Prediction

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist here to realize that it is better to bet on Brazil’s win than anything else. Selecao accelerated over the past few weeks, reaching top speed, and at this moment, Croats have nothing to hope for in their matchup.

Pick: Brazil wins 

 

Check out for our other World Cup quarterfinals previews:

• Netherlands vs. Argentina
• England vs. France
• Morocco vs. Portugal