Croatia
Tactics
Slaven Bilic encourages attacking play. His standard formation is 4-4-2, with a flat back four, but against theoretically weaker opponents switches to 4-1-3-2.
His main problems lie in defence, principally because his two first-choice central defenders, Robert Kovac and Simic, do not see much first-team action at their clubs. As a consequence, Simunic, usually a left-back, will probably take one of the centre-back spots, with Simic the most likely to make way. This scenario does have the advantage of making room for the attack-minded Pranjic to come in at left-back.
Opening up the left
In midfield, the director’s role goes to Modric, who, with Kranjcar, dictates the way the team play. During qualification, attacks were usually launched down the right, where full-back Corluka and midfielder Srna linked well, while on the left Simunic had strictly defensive duties. However, in recent friendlies Bilic has clearly been looking to open up the left, with Pranjic teamed with Kranjcar, moved wider from his normal central role.
The holding midfield berth goes to Niko Kovac, but though he has undoubted leadership qualities, there are question marks about his ability to function adequately at this level given his age. If it proves too much, Leko has been prepared to replace him.
Petric first or second
Petric is a certain starter in attack. The energetic Olic will probably get the second striker role. However, Budan is a robust centre-forward and good in the air. If he is chosen, Petric would play as a second striker. Bilic’s treasure is Rakitic, who is able to play in a number of positions and could thus replace Kranjcar, Srna and even Modric, or play off a main striker.
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