2014 FIFA World Cup: Mexico vs. Croatia: Predictions, Analysis, Date, How to Watch
Mexico and Croatia will square off against one another on Monday in a Group A showdown as the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil rolls on.
Group A has been one of the tightest groups at the World Cup so far. Only Cameroon has been officially eliminated from advancing to the knockout stage. Both Mexico and Croatia will play each other for a chance to take over the top position in Group A. That would of course require some help from Cameroon against Brazil.
So, which team has the edge? Latin Post.com takes a look:
Mexico
The Mexican defense has been superb in the first two games since they haven't allowed a single goal so far. The team won the opener 1-0 over Cameroon and tied with the powerhouse that is Brazil, 0-0. Head coach Miguel Herrera used to play for the Mexican national team, and his defensive squad is getting the job done.
The defensive tandem of Rafael Márquez and Carlos Salcido has been among the best during these World Cup games. Mexico's goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has been outstanding and made several key saves against Brazil. Mexico and Nigeria are the only two countries to not allow a single goal two games into the tournament. There are still some concerns offensively, as the team only has one goal in the first two games. Giovani Santos is the best scorer on the team, and he will be much-needed against Croatia.
Croatia
This is Croatia's fourth appearance in the last five World Cups. This squad comes in ranked No. 18 overall, and their head coach is Niko Kovac. Kovac was the team captain for Croatia at the 2006 World Cup. Croatia lost their opener to Brazil 3-1 but rebounded to win their next game against Cameroon 4-1 in dominating fashion.
Croatia is the exact opposite of Mexico as far as game plan and depth. Croatia has a far better offense, having scored five goals in their two games to Mexico's one. However, they have allowed three goals to Mexico's zero. Croatia's high-powered offense is led by Ivica Olic and Mario Mandzukic who have a combined three goals in the first two games. Croatia's defense isn't the elite, but the team has a great goalkeeper in Stipe Pletikosa.
Where and When to watch
These two teams will play each other at the Arena Pernambuco in Recife. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. EST Monday on ESPN. Those who are looking to watch the game online can use the Univision player. At the same time, another Group A game, between Brazil and Cameroon, will be underway with huge implications.
Prediction
All offense versus all defense: Something's got to give. Croatia could and probably will be the first team to light the lamp against Mexico's defense, but Mexico will prevail in the end. Mexico wins 2-1.
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