Summary:
With Brazil ranked as #3 in the world, and Croatia as #18, these are both very good, high ranked, soccer teams with a lot expected of them. The pressure will be on Brazil, playing the first game at the brand new 61,000 seat Sao Paulo stadium (in the territory of the famous Corinthians team with its volatile and passionate supporters).
Noting:
Croatia can score goals against Brazil and Croatia does have a more integrated and stronger defence array.
Brazil does have high quality length-of-field sprinting attack skills based upon individuals, as always, and their game is defined by this. Brazil is a young fast team.
If Brazil plays their first game carefully, they should win by 1-0. If Brazil turns on the attacking speed and makes it 'the beautiful game' and thus makes it's own defence vulnerable, then I expect Brazil will win 3-1. Watch for aerial goals from Brazil's Hulk, and long-drive shots from Brazil's Fred.
Expected Outcome: Brazil 3-1 Croatia.
