Croatia takes on Cameroon: The "first step"

Cameroon - Croatia
World Cup, Group A.
18 June 2014, 18:00 (00:00 Croatian time)
Arena Amazonia, Manaus.

Just a couple of days ago in Sao Paulo, Croatian national football team enjoyed the World Cup spotlight and despite an excellent performance against the host nation Brazil was left empty-handed. In Manaus, Croatia continues to seek a place in the second round.

"The pitch is OK, and we accept the weather conditions the way they are. We are not looking for any excuses", emphasized Croatia head coach Niko Kovač upon arrival to Manaus, speaking about high temperatures and humidity.

Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandžukić is back from suspension and will be starting the Cameroon match in the first team, while head coach Kovač can count on left-back Danijel Pranjić, recovered from ankle injury.

Midfielder Milan Badelj joined the team after the Brazil clash, replacing the injured Ivan Močinić, and Luka Modrić is fit after having a foot problem.

"Should we play like we did against Brazil, we have a chance of progressing. Nobody will give us any gifts, we go and fight", said Kovač.

The Cameroonians suffered the defeat at the hands of Mexico (0:1) at the start of their Group A campaign, with legendary striker Samuel Eto'o doubtful due to medical issues.

The referee is 43-year-old Portuguese Pedro Proenca.

Considering the goalless draw in the Brazil-Mexico match played on Tuesday, a defeat for Croatia or Cameroon would rule out any possibility of reaching the next round.

"We have to beat Cameroon and Mexico to reach the second round. I believe that we can do the first step on Wednesday", said Mario Mandžukić.

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