The World Cup exploits of Spain and Croatia could not be more contrasting. Spain was expected to reach the minimum of a semi-final place, with a wealth of the world’s top stars at their disposal. Croatia was well outside of the favorites and in a tough group that included Argentina, Nigeria, and Iceland. In Modric, they had one main star player they could call upon.
Modric picked up the individual awards this year
As the games progressed, the mighty Spaniards did not look so mighty. Croatia, with a country population of just 4 million did the unexpected and made it through to the final, where they lost to France. New heroes emerged and Modric lit up the World Cup and was subsequently presented with the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament. Messi’s Argentina struggled to click into the gear in this World Cup and Messi was far from his best.
When the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award was announced and the winner was Modric, there were split opinions across the world of football. Yes, Modric had done so well in the World Cup and helped his club Real Madrid to lift the Champions League but Messi is undoubtedly the outright best player in the world to most.
Spain vs Croatia Betting & Odds
Enrique says Messi is the best in the world
In the lead up to the match between Spain and Croatia, new Spain manager Luis Enrique has given his opinion on the matter and he is definitely ‘Team Messi’. Having managed him at Barcelona, he has seen close up just how far ahead of everyone else Messi actually is. Enrique said during the press conference: “If I talk about Croatia I would talk about Modric and Rajkitic but if I have to talk about the best in the world, that’s Leo Messi.”
Spain vs Croatia Betting & Odds
Team news Spain vs Croatia
Tonight will be a strong test for Croatia, as they will see whether their World Cup campaign was a one-off or if they are ready to stay at the top of world football. Spain bounced back from their World Cup disappointment with a deserved win against England. With Silva, Pique, and Iniesta retiring and Costa not in the team due to the birth of his child, it is the chance for the younger generation to show what they can do.
Croatia has also seen key members of their team retire including goalkeeper Subasic and Mario Mandzukic. Meanwhile, their central defensive partnership of Lovren and Vida is unavailable as both players are out with injuries.