Croatia is currently ranked 12th in the world, ten places ahead of the Atlas Lions. Croatia’s recent form has been very impressive, unbeaten in five games, including a win and a draw against France, and beating World Cup dark horses Denmark, home and away. The Checkered Ones received a boost on the eve of the tournament, with Inter midfielder Marcelo Brozović deemed fit enough to make the squad.

Morocco was among the last teams to complete their preparation with a game against Georgia, just three days before the tournament starts. They are expected to adopt an unusual 5-1-2-2 formation, with their opponents opting for a 4-4-2 Diamond. Croatia faced an African team in their opening game four years ago and will hope for a similar result to their 2-0 triumph over Nigeria that day, which set them on the path to a surprise appearance in the Final.