Even with the talent oozing through the squad, Croatia only squeezed through the playoffs to qualify for a second straight World Cup. Can they emulate the performance in 1998 when Croatia finished third at its first World Cup? In qualifying, Croatia only conceded four times, the same as World Cup holder Germany and reining European champion Portugal. MIDFIELDERSCroatia's creative midfield pairing of Modric and Rakitic might have the last chance to deliver at this World Cup. ———More AP World Cup coverage: www.apnews.com/tag/WorldCup

Source: ABC News April 27, 2018 18:22 UTC