Croatia striker, Andrej Kramarić has stated that his country’s 2018 World Cup opener against Nigeria will be their toughest match.
The Hoffenheim forward, however, said Zlatko Dalić’s men will be ready to overcome Super Eagles when both teams clash at the Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad on Saturday.
”Nigeria – the most difficult opponent for us, because with it we will hold the first match in the tournament,” Kramaric told reporters.
”It is very important to start very well. In addition, we expect a difficult match against Argentina. This is a very strong opponent.
”Everything is great, we are concentrated, feel team spirit and unity. We need to prepare well for the first game,” he said.
Asked about captain Luka Modrić’s role in the Croatia team, he said: ”Luka is a very important player for our team. This is one of the best players on the planet.”
Croatia are in Group D of this year’s tournament in Russia, alongside, Nigeria, Iceland and Argentina.
The Balkans have not won their last three opening matches at the World Cup, losing 3-1 to hosts Brazil in 2014, while they lost 1-0 to both Mexico and Brazil in 2002 and 2006, respectively.
They will be hoping to reverse that trend when they face Gernot Rohr’s men on June 16.
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