Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti remains focused on process over results after a 2-1 defeat to France at Gillette Stadium, home of NFL side the New England Patriots.
The Seleção struggled to find their footing against Les Bleus, and the former Real Madrid boss is hoping for an improvement in another high-profile clash against Croatia at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.
Ancelotti has faced criticism heading into this international break, largely centered around his decision to exclude record-breaker Neymar from the squad due to ongoing fitness concerns.
“I’m satisfied with the game because the team competed, fought with good moves,” Ancelotti said after losing to France. “We don’t have to be happy with the result. Raphinha had good movements without the ball and Vinicius is always dangerous.”
When pushed further on the vocal calls from fans and legends to bring Neymar back into the fold, the Italian tactician firmly shut down the outside noise.
“We should talk about those who were here, who have played, who have given everything, who have shown their face, have worked hard and I am satisfied,” Ancelotti insisted.
The task at hand does not get any easier. Croatia arrive in Orlando after putting on a masterclass in grinding out results, defeating Colombia 2-1 in their respective Thursday fixture.
Boasting a squad of veterans like Luka Modrić with a fiercely athletic younger core, Zlatko Dalić’s men haven’t lost a match in their last nine outings.
Team news for Brazil v Croatia
Brazil’s medical team has its hands full following the physical battle with France. Barcelona winger Raphinha failed to emerge for the second half due to a muscle injury. Ancelotti confirmed the medical staff are evaluating him, but he is highly unlikely to be risked.
Furthermore, right-back Wesley is managing a muscle knock, and Arsenal defender Gabriel withdrew from the camp entirely before the break due to right knee pain.
Croatia reports no fresh injury concerns following their physical 2-1 victory over Colombia. Real Madrid maestro Luka Modrić came off the bench in that fixture to earn his 195th international cap and is widely expected to return to the starting XI to face his former club manager.
Predicted line-ups for Brazil v Croatia
Brazil: Ederson; Danilo, Bremer, L. Pereira, D. Santos; Casemiro, A. Santos; G. Martinelli, M. Cunha, Vinícius Jr.; Pedro.
Croatia: Livakovic; Pongracic, Erlic, Vuskovic; Stanisic, Modric, P. Sucic, Perisic; M. Pasalic, Kramaric, Baturina.
Where to watch Brazil v Croatia: TV and online streams
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on ITV4 and available to stream via ITVX.
Stats for Brazil v Croatia
- Both Raphinha and Vinícius Jr. are experiencing a rare international dry spell, with neither player having found the back of the net in their last four appearances for Brazil.
- Overall, the historical head-to-head record sits heavily in favour of the South Americans; Brazil have 3 wins, Croatia has 0 wins, and there has been 1 draw
Prediction for Brazil v Croatia
With Raphinha expected to miss out and Brazil still searching for their most cohesive starting XI under Ancelotti, a rigid and experienced Croatia side will prove to be a massive obstacle. Croatia enter the game with all the momentum in the world and know exactly how to neutralise elite attackers. Expect a highly competitive tactical draw in Florida.
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