What is effectively an elimination play-off takes places in the heat of Manaus , Brazil, where both Cameroon and Croatia know that defeat will spell the end of their hopes of reaching the second round.
The Africans were poor in their opening loss to Mexico, whose one-goal margin of victory really could have been improved upon with better finishing and more than a slice of luck. Cameroon haven't been helped by an injury to forward Samuel Eto'o , but will know that a drastic improvement is required regardless.
Croatia, who have had issues with the media this week as per BBC Sport, will welcome back forward Mario Mandzukic from suspension after he missed the harsh 3-1 defeat to hosts Brazil on opening night in Sao Paulo.
The possibility of a creditable draw on Thursday was seemingly snatched away from them when Dejan Lovren was adjudged to have fouled Fred in the penalty area.
Midfield was a key area in their impressive display against the hosts, with both Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic doubtless looked to for inspiration in this must-win contest against Cameroon.
Check out our live player ratings during the clash.
//from Bleacher Report http://ift.tt/1r923hE
via IFTTT June 18, 2014 at 01:00PM
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