Croatia are not expected to make too many changes as they face Belgium, having thumped Canada and in need of just a point to secure a knockout stage spot.
Captain Luka Modric could step down as he is one booking away from being sent off, although it would be a surprise to see him out.
Marko Livaja replaced Nikola Vlasic and established himself in the forward line against Canada alongside Andrej Kramaric and Ivan Perisic and should keep his place.
Romelu Lukaku should start for Belgium after a fitness cameo against Morocco after injury. Michy Batshuayi will be the man to clear the way.
“He makes all the difference in the world when he plays for us,” Roberto Martinez said.
“He is a natural leader, drives the offense forward and acts as a point of reference in the forward areas.” He is a key player for us.”
Roberto Martinez is unlikely to stop there in terms of changes as they look for a win to guarantee a place in the last 16. A draw will do if Morocco lose to Canada.
Eden Hazard is widely expected to drop out despite his struggles in Qatar so far, but Yannick Carrasco, Leandro Trossard and Jeremy Doku will all be hoping that changes.
Leave a comment