Iceland to be Croatia’s bogey men once again

If Iceland are going to advance to the knockouts they need a win against Croatia as well as a helping hand from other match in their group, Nigeria vs. Argentina. But do they have what it takes?

Iceland

Iceland were in a prime position before the match against Nigeria after securing a draw against heavyweights Argentina. But the northerners didn’t compose themselves altogether well against the West Africans. They were without a doubt the better side in the first half and were responsible for the majority of the match’s goal opportunities. Unfortunately for them they failed to capitalise on their chances.

It could be a night of celebrations for the Vikings of the north

The main man they were counting on to produce the goods, Gylfi Sigurdsson hasn’t lived up to expectations up to this point, even managing to miss a penalty just before the final whistle was blown. What Iceland do have to console themselves with is the fact that Croatia are already through with a healthy goal difference and won’t be going all out.

Croatia are sure to rest some key players before the knockout stage gets underway, and if Iceland manage it at the same time Nigeria don’t win, it could be a night of celebrations for the Vikings of the north.

They could perform well, even against a Croatia side in decent form. After all, they’ve beat them before in qualifying. These two are definitely no strangers to each other. The biggest question mark around Iceland’s team is, are their offensive players clinical enough to get the job done.

Croatia

Croatia have definitely exceeded expectations in the first two matches. Against Argentina they were tight at the back and didn’t allow Lionel Messi and his faithful troop any stand out opportunities at the goal to make it count. Even at the front their were ruthless, and their key men in the middle Modric and Rakitic were outstanding.

Croatia look promising before the knockout stages even get going, and they have players in good from throughout the team, not to mention strength in depth and a steely resolve to get the job done.

Let’s not forget that Croatia are already through as standout group winners

The question now is - can Croatia win a third in a row and finish the group with full points? Many think they will and the odds are saying likewise. But given all the good things I have to say about Croatia, I’ve found something of worth to stake against them for this match up. Let’s not forget that Croatia are already through as standout group winners and will rest for sure, probably with Mandzukic, Modric and Rakitic all out for this match. That’s why their performance will probably not register full marks.

Oh, and Croatia struggled significantly against Iceland in their qualifying group. The Icelanders are somewhat of a bogey team for the men from the Balkans.

Match Tips

Nobody would hold it against a satisfied and depleted Croatia team to draw or even lose here. The Croats are saving their energy for the knockouts. I do still think their alternative eleven is good enough to get a draw here and end Iceland’s knockout stage dreams.

I’ve found good odds with Betway for 13/10 (2.30) for Iceland and Croatia to draw with money back if Iceland win.

Bet Iceland - Croatia draw (money back Iceland win) on Betway