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2022 World Cup match preview, predictions, betting picks, odds for Brazil vs. Croatia. Read the FIFA World Cup matchup breakdown and top soccer bets.
Our next match preview will kick off the quarterfinals with Group G winner, Brazil, battling Group F runner-up, Croatia. Croatia is the returning World Cup runner-up, led by 2018 Ballon D'or winner Luka Modric. Brazil, meanwhile, is turning into the tournament's heavy favorite after dominating South Korea in the opening round of knockout play, 4-1.
Now that we've reached the quarterfinals, teams are one win away from securing a top-four finish in the world. The team at RotoBaller has you covered for all your World Cup needs. We'll bring you DFS articles, game previews, and betting picks throughout the competition.
Before you read on, remember these essential things: Betting on sports should be fun. If you aren't having fun with it, stop. And never bet what you can't afford to lose. Follow the team on Twitter (@LucidMediaDFS, @PhilOfSports, @EuanOrYouOut, @df_solutions, @Mark_Kieffer, @RichKingFF, @Baseball_Jimbo, and myself, @wagmifantasy), and reach out to any of us if you ever have any soccer questions or need advice on any of this.
Croatia Team Breakdown
Croatia outlasted dark horse Japan in the round of sixteen, advancing with a penalty shootout win. Goalkeeper Dominik Livaković was a hero in the shootout, stopping three of Japan's four takes from the line. The 2018 World Cup runner-ups battled group winner Morocco and reigning World Cup bronze medalists Belgium to scoreless draws in group play, along with dominating Canada 4-1.
Strengths: Through 390 minutes of play, opponents have scored just twice against the Croatians. Livaković has made nine saves so far this tournament and their defensive line, headlined by center-back Dejan Lovren, has made it difficult for opponents to fire off good chances on goal. Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, and Marcelo Brozović form an impressive midfield trio that will keep Croatia competitive in any match.
Weaknesses: Croatia's attack has been handicapped by the glaring hole of a dominant striker. Mario Mandžukić, now an assistant coach for Croatia, was the big-time playmaker up top for Croatia in their cinderella run in 2018. Bruno Petković, Marko Livaja, and typical right-winger Andrej Kramarić have each started a match up top for the Croatians. There is a lot of stress on Ivan Perišić and the midfielders to generate goals.
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Brazil Team Breakdown
Brazil built a 4-0 lead in the first half against South Korea before letting off the gas pedal in their round of sixteen matchup. The Brazilians are becoming Vegas's heavy favorite to win the tournament, sitting at +175 ahead of the quarterfinals. Five different players have scored for the five-time World Cup champions in this year's competition.
Strengths: It's hard to pick out the specific strengths of this squad. They've generated the most shots (74) and shots on target (29) through four games. Opponents are averaging just 2.3 shots on target per game against Brazil. Neymar, Richarlison, Vini Jr., and Raphinha form a dangerous attack, while Thiago Silva and Marquinhos anchor a strong backline.
Weaknesses: Alex Sandro missed Brazil's last match with discomfort in his hip. Éder Militão and Danilo pair off as Brazil's fullback duo and although they would be strengths for most teams, they serve as the weak links in this lineup.
Croatia vs. Brazil Prediction
Brazil is rolling at the right time, while Croatia is grinding out positive results, surviving, and advancing. Despite suffering injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles, Brazil remains deeper and more talented than their opponent. Croatia would need a heroic effort from their stars to keep pace with the firepower they're lining up against. I expect the reigning runner-ups to respectably bend a lot before breaking, but eventually, the Brazilians will become too much.
Score prediction: Croatia 0 - 2 Brazil
