Key Battle: John Obi Mikel (Nigeria) v Luka Modric (Croatia)
The Real Madrid midfielder will be at the heart of most of Croatia’s play and is sure to be the player in this game who dictates its tempo.
Provided more freedom to play further forward for his country, Modric will be expected to open up the Nigerian defence for the forwards ahead of him.
The ’10’ role is one he has barely played since his Tottenham days, however, and taking him out of natural position could, conversely, see his influence marginalised
Playing opposite the former Tottenham midfielder will be a former Chelsea midfielder. Although John Obi Mikel is widely regarded as a defensive midfielder, he began his career in a more prominent attacking role.
It could well be this aspect of his game he will need to reprise if Nigeria are to fare well. There are plenty other anchoring midfielders in the Super Eagles squad to provide his cover, however, how rusty he proves to be in playing his preferred position will have a huge impact in their overall performance.
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