CROATIA

Ranking 20. Last time Group stage. Manager Zlatko Dalic — hired following the sacking of Ante Cacic in October last year. Dalic successfully saw the team past Greece in the play-offs and was rewarded with a two-year contract. He was formerly assistant in the under-21 side and many of the players he worked with have since moved up.

They’re a bit like Borussia Dortmund — lots of promise and glimpses of attacking flair.

Key man Luka Modric (left) — his third World Cup and Modric remains as integral to Croatia’s chances as ever. Based in an advanced midfield position, he still sets the pace and retains that ability to split defences with a pass many players wouldn’t even see. Real Madrid star was named Croatia’s player of the year for the sixth time in a row in January.

Rising star Tin Jedvaj — the 22-year-old is a defender for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga and has made 11 appearances for his country. Started Croatia’s 2-1 win over Spain at Euro 2016.

Prospects A lot rides on opening game against Nigeria, with Argentina second up.