The FIFA World Cup Kickaround Thread #2 For 6/23/14: Group A Finale Day

Photo from Getty Images 

Mexico-Croatia Tactical Thoughts

While an unchanged first eleven for Miguel Hererra, some interesting adjustments made by Niko Kovac.

Talented young Sime Vrsaljko will come in at left back and be protected by Danijel Pranjic to combat the quality that Hector Herrera has displayed this tournament and the energy that Paul Aguilar has offered at right football.

Can Vasquez continue his great tournament along with a rejuvenated Guadrado versus the infamous combination of Modric and Rakitic.

Even more than the Brazil game, this will be the toughest test for the Mexican backline, especially Rafa Marquez and Maza Rodriguez against how formidable Mario Mandzukic and Ivica Olic can be. Maybe the matchup going must under the radar is who will win any duel when Ivan Perisic has to face up against Hector Moreno. Both players are in fine form and could be the difference to whether their side goes through.

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Brazil-Cameroon Thoughts 

Arguably Cameroon's best XI today, with Matip playing in his rightful spot and Assou-Ekotto dropped for Bedimo after his infamous headbutt at Moukandjo. Both Matip and Bedimo should have been in the lineup in their rightful spots from match one and speaks to how Finke has been the worst manager of the tournament.

Hulk is back for Brazil, but again, maybe he should be the forward leading the line instead of Fred, who is under the huge microscope today.

(Back for postgame and maybe a halftime too)