Croatia will face Belgium at home in Davis Cup play this weekend. It is a tough match-up for the Croatians, but their roster is strong enough to give them a realistic shot at winning.
Tough Path to World Group for Croatia
Croatia had to get past Brazil in the World Group playoff to be where they are now. They had a tough time in beating Brazil, 3-1. Borna Coric was the outstanding player in the victory, as he was able to win both of his singles matches in that tie. Coric reflected on that moment in an interview for the Davis Cup website.
"In Brazil I was playing very well. I was very happy with my performance. In the doubles, we won, which was a big surprise as we weren’t favorites. It was a very good week for Croatia," he added. "Now we stay in the World Group, and now that our team is full, we can do something."
Croatia have a powerful team with Marin Cilic, Ivan Dodig and Martin Draganja joining the youngster on the team. They start their campaign away to Belgium, whose biggest threat comes from David Goffin. Goffin is currently ranked 16th. It is questionable though as to how much he can do against a strong looking Croatian team.
Coric said that he is sure it will be an interesting tie, and also had more to say on the matter.
"I’m really looking forward to the Davis Cup because I love spending the week with the guys and I think that it’s a great competition. We’re going to have fun but we’re also going to work very hard. I think it’s a good match for us."
Croatia are the favorites to win this tie, but it can't be taken for granted as Belgium always tend to perform above themselves during these crucial ties. They finished runners-up to Great Britain in last year's competition.