Russia v Croatia: Punters piling in for classy Croats

Sochi ITV, 7pm

Analysis
World Cup hosts Russia knocked Spain out of the tournament last weekend but that hasn't stopped punters from backing Croatia to advance to the semi-finals to play England.

The classy Croats were available to back at 5-4 for the Sochi clash this morning but they have been hammered into 11-10 and just 8-15 to book their spot in the last four for Wednesday's second semi-final against Gareth Southgate's side in Moscow.

Yuri Zhirkov is a notable absentee for the hosts. The veteran full-back was struggling with an injury and is replaced by the versatile Denis Cheryshev who may well slot into the left-back spot.

Croatia have recalled Andrej Kramaric at the expense of Marcelo Brozovic. He will play behind main striker Mario Mandzukic as Zlatko Dalic fields the same team that beat Nigeria 2-0 in their group opener.

Despite the scoreline, Croatia were not wildly impressive that day. They had just two shots on goal and Russia's dour defence could frustrate them. Goals may prove hard to find.

Teams
Russia (5-3-1-1): Akinfeev; Fernandes, Kutepov, Ignashevich, Kudryashov, Cheryshev; Zobnin, Kuzyaev, Samedov; Golovin; Dzyuba.
Croatia (4-2-3-1): Subasic; Vrsaljko, Lovren, Vida, Strinic; Modric, Rakitic; Rebic, Kramaric, Perisic; Mandzukic.

Betting
Best morning odds
Russia 3-1, Croatia 5-4, 21-10 draw.

Latest odds
Russia 17-5, Croatia 11-10, 11-5 draw.

Recommendation
Under 0.5 first-half goals
1pt 7-5 Betfair

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