Both Japan and Croatia suffered defeats in their first outings at Germany 2006. Now the hopes of two nations rest on victory in Nuremberg on Sunday. Anything less, and their prospects for the Round of 16 will look bleak at best.
Following the 3-1 loss to Australia, Japan coach Zico has opted to change from a 3-5-2 to a 4-4-2 formation. Good news for Japan includes the likely return of right-side Akira Kaji , who appears to have recovered from the injury he picked up during Japan's friendly with Germany on 28 May.
While Croatiawent down to a 1-0 defeat against Brazil, their fine display in that match will see them in good heart. The FIFA World Cup semi-finalists from France 98 lost captain and defensive linchpin Niko Kovac to injury, though, and there is concern about his availability for the Japan game.
hyeah: :rofl:
