LNerves and tension begin to rise as the time approaches to face the semifinals in Qatar 2022 and the first to take action will be Croatia and Argentina. Although for many, Argentina is a slight favorite to advance to the final, the reality is that Croatia has the necessary weapons to settle for the second consecutive World Cup in the Finalso next we review the keys that can lead them to that instance.
1. Experience
A factor that undoubtedly weighs in these instances, Croatia already knows what it is to play a semifinal and the stage should not weigh on them. Several players from those who faced France in the 2018 Russian Final remain and of course that factor could be the difference.
2. Undefeated
Croatia has not lost in this World Cup and Although he has suffered to move forward, it is also true that he has known how to remain undefeatedfacing teams that on paper could hurt them like Belgium in the group stage or Brazil itself.
3. Luka Modric
If Argentina has Messi, Croatia can show off Luka Modric, who once again has left a sample of his talent and despite his 37 years, he continues to be a decisive player and above all a leader in every sense of the word for his companions who fully trust their captain.
Luka Modric, bastion of the Croatian team | Archyde.com
4. Penalty experts
If the semifinal against Argentina goes to penalties, there is no doubt that the Croats will have a very important psychological advantage. They have already shown that they can handle the pressure with four series wins in World Cups. In addition, their goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic has given the team security under the three sticks.
5. Fighting spirit
If the Croatians have shown anything throughout their history, It is that spirit of not giving up. They did it in Russia and now they repeat it in Qatar, it is not easy to defeat such a united team where everyone pulls in the same direction. So that aspect will be another that Argentina will have to impose itself on.