Canada will be searching for their first win on the World Cup stage as they meet Croatia in what could be a must-win game for both sides following frustrating opening fixtures.
The Reds tasted defeat in their opening game against a Belgium side who were second best for the majority of the game. Canada can take inspiration from an encouraging performance where they were let down by wastefulness in front of goal.
Croatia began their 2022 World Cup campaign with a 0-0 draw against a stern Morocco side and will be hoping to show more potency in the attacking third with the array of talent in the side.
The meeting will be the first between the two sides with Canada looking to record their first World Cup goal and points.
-
Team News
Zlatko Dalic made the decision to replace Nikola Vlasic at half time in the opening fixture introducing Atalanta star Mario Pasalic into the fray.
Dalic could opt for an alternative attacking option in this outing with the likes of Pasalic and Mirslav Orsic at his disposal.
It shouldn’t be a surprise that Luka Modric remains the key for the Valtreni with a solid performance against Morocco despite the side struggling to carve out clear-cut opportunities throughout the game.
John Herdman has no new injury concerns in a side that could likely remain unchanged from Belgium.
Alphonso Davies is arguably the standout player for the Maple Leafs despite his penalty miss saved by Thibaut Courtois which would have been a first goal on the World Cup stage for the country.
-
Key players
The Bayern Munich wonderkid remains one of the North American nation's main outlets with his pace and power on the left.
The quality of the Canadian star is recognised not just in his home nation, but in European football and World football and was on show against Belgium despite the penalty miss.
Against an ageing Croatia squad, Davies could prove to be a real handful for the opposition and could be a key factor in Canada getting a result.
In what was not the most entertaining of encounters against the Atlas Lions, Modric was once again the heartbeat of the Croatia side.
The Real Madrid midfielder was tenacious as ever with a constant intent to create chances for his side.
The intensity Canada showed against Belgium could well be on show again meaning Modric's technical brilliance and tenacity will be key amongst his midfield partners to control the game.
-
Match Details
Where is the match being played?
The match will be played at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm GMT/ 11am ET/8am PT.
How can I watch?
The game can be watched in the UK on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. For US viewers, FS1.