Croatia v Nigeria Match
Croatia v Nigeria Match Preview, 16/06/2018
Pringles Preview: The Super Eagles look to soar against the Europeans
Yusuf Variava
09:01
Getty
The Super Eagles will look to get their campaign off with a bang as they lock horns with the impressive Blazers on Saturday
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On Saturday, in the pick of the day’s exciting action, is one of the most highly anticipated encounters of the group stages as Croatia take on Nigeria and the support of the entire African continent.
Nigeria’s campaign may not have started just yet, but they are already endearing themselves to the European crowd with their off-the-field flamboyance and wildly successful kit launch.
Although they comfortably qualified for the tournament, their recent off-field success has not found its way onto the field as they have struggled in the run into the tournament, losing three of their four most recent warm-up matches. Coach Gernot Rohr will be a worried man going into his side’s opener.
In their preparation for the tournament, the Super Eagles took on European opposition to prepare for their opener but suffered defeat to both the Czech Republic and England, and it is not expected to get any easier in front of what should be a packed stadium.
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Meanwhile, with players such as Real Madrid star Luka Modric and Barcelona playmaker Ivan Rakitic among others at coach Zlatko Dalic’s disposal, Croatia will be looking to give themselves a chance at progression with an early win.
In a group which consists of Nigeria, Iceland and tournament favourites Argentina, this match-up with arguably Africa's strongest team in the tournament, would be an ideal opportunity for the Croatians to display their desire to reach the knockout rounds.
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This fixture will be the first ever meeting between the two nations in a competitive match, and with Nigeria looking to surpass the round of 16 for the very first time, only the three points will bring about the sense of belief they will need to see those that goal realised. They will also look to become the first African team to win a match at this year's edition following Egypt and Morocco's defeats to Uruguay and Iran respectively.
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But just like Nigeria, the Europeans' preparations have not been the best, but a 2-1 victory ahead of the global showcase against Senegal should give them confidence.
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FORM
CROATIA
W W L W L
NIGERIA
L L L D L
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