Croatia vs Denmark

Croatia- Easily the best team in Group D, they finished in the top spot and earned all nine points, while ceding only one goal in their three matches. Seen as competing in a tough group, they beat Argentina, Nigeria and Iceland en route to winning the geoup. Striker Mario Mandzukic is their main threat up front, but their midfielder is their core strength with La Liga stars Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic controlling the center of the pitch while supporting the offense. With Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren anchoring the back line, Croatia has proven to be a difficult opponent.

Denmark- The Danes were expected to advance beyond group play, with France, Peru and Australia filling out the group. Denmark played well enough to advance, with one win and two ties. In three games, they gave up only one goal but only saw the back of the net twice. Denmark is led by Tottenham Spurs midfielder Christian Eriksen, who had an uneven three games thus far. More will be needed of Eriksen if they are to advance through the knockout phases of the Cup. Defensively, Chelsea fullback Andres Christensen leads a stout defense with Leicester City keeper Kasper Schmeichel taking charge in goal. He is the main reason Denmark has ceded just one goal in the tournament up until now.

Prediction- Croatia is by far the more balanced team, with Denmark having to rely on their more experienced and talented players. Croatia should be able to shut down Eriksen, then apply pressure to the back line of Denmark. Much of the match will be played in the Danish final third of field, seeing Croatia advance to the next round of play with a 2-0 win.