If Cameroon is going to beat Croatia, it will be without their team captain, Samuel Eto'o. He went down with a knee injury that continues to give him problems and will likely miss the remaining matches of the World Cup. The team is already in the hole after losing to Mexico 1-0 in their opening match. Croatia is in the same boat after falling to Brazil in the first game of the tournament and now both teams will play in desperation mode as they search to stay alive in the World Cup.
Croatia was playing well against Brazil until a questionable call changed the tone of the game. The team is also in the injury hole after midfielder Luka Modric injured his foot in the loss. Mateo Kovacic is expected to be his replacement should the veteran not be capable of playing. Croatia is coming off a somewhat crushing loss to Brazil. The team played a strong game and now are forced to try and move on after a penalty cost them three points. The good news is the team will be the return of Mario Mandzukic. He missed the opening game against Brazil due to a suspension and he will likely move into the lone centre-forward spot in place of Nikica Jelavic.
Cameroon played a poor game against Mexico. The team only lost 1-0, but the stats show the margin should have been much bigger. If they intend on progressing past group play, they must improve. Unfortunately, as much as Eto'o wants to play, it appears he will remain on the sidelines. He missed several days of training after the injury which was sustained during his season with Chelsea. He is still one of Cameroon's most capable players so if the team grows desperate they can put him on the field.
It is win or go home for Cameroon and Croatia. The loser of this game will be too far in the hole to advance out of the knockout stages. Croatia is hoping playing well against Brazil means they can top Cameroon as both players are in desperate need of the three points.
