South American football juggernauts Brazil and Argentina will headline the kick-off to the highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final showdowns in Qatar which are set to begin on Friday.
Both teams who entered the tournament as favorites to lift the title have so far verified their projections by reaching the final eight however will face their biggest challenges toward lifting the 2022 title.
World Number 1 ranked Brazil who have shown good nick in their last game with some happy football in their round of 16; 4-1 win over South Korea will be looking to serve more ‘Samba sauce’ with their football when they face Croatia in the opening fixture.
While they have registered goals from several different players they no doubt will be hoping star Neymar Jr can continue his influence on the field.
The PSG star who missed two games, due to injury, marked his return with a goal in their win over the Koreans.
Reigning Cup finalist Croatia, has been steadfast in their progression through the tournament whilst not as blessed with the same quantity of star power in their lineup, they have maximized on an efficient system.
Captain Luka Modric has maintained his talismanic presence in the midfield thus far, and it’s what the Croatians will be hoping to make the difference in their high-profile knock-out.
It will be a similar story for the Lionel Messi-Led Argentina when they face the Netherlands in the following fixture.
A lot of hype has been around Messi’s expected performance in what will be his final World Cup and his legacy.
While he has had some standout performances thus far including equaling Diego Maradona’s record of nine world cup goals, he will be expected to have his best game if they are to contain the Dutch.
The PSG forward is joint second on the top sorcerer’s list with three goals in four games this tournament.
Cody Gakpo who is also level with Messi on three goals will have the same intention in mind to extend not only his tally but the competition run of 2010 Cup finalist Netherlands.
This game is set for a 10:00 am kick-off while Brazil vs Croatia follows at 2:00 pm
