1st Jul 2018 | World Cup
Croatia Revel In Dark Horse Status
Denmark haven't lost in an age but equally they haven't played many sides of Croatia's quality in that sequence. Stung by some criticism, a determination to be more adventurous is likely to end in defeat.
Croatia were arguably the most impressive team of the group stages as one of only three outfits who took maximum points.
Denmark garnered a lot less praise and actually came into criticism for their negativity when drawing 0-0 with France to ensure their progression. Having watched Les Bleus put 4 past Argentina yesterday though, that approach looks vindicated.
But Danish coach Age Hareide has promised a more attacking mindset in the last 16 and I can only see that playing into the hands of their dangerous opponents. Croatia to win 3-1 at massive odds of 20/1 with Bet365 looks like a punt worth taking.
The Scandinavians are unbeaten in 18 matches so we shouldn’t expect them to go down easily and Christian Eriksen is always liable to score or create a moment of magic.
The trouble is that Denmark have one clear talisman whereas Croatia are spoilt for match-winners with Modric, Perisic and Rakitic three world-class talents who should come to the fore again. When the game gets stretched, they can be devastating.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 08:45 1st Jul, 2018 but subject to change