How can Croatia upset Brazil in the World Cup quarterfinals? (1:12)Gab & Juls debate how Croatia will look to set up against Brazil in the World Cup quarterfinals. (1:12)
Having arrived at the 2022 World Cup with a reputation as one of the most promising young centre-backs in the world, it’s no bold claim to suggest that Croatia‘s Josko Gvardiol (who was No. 22 on ESPN’s 39 U21 list in April) has been the outstanding defender of the tournament so far.
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Reputations are one thing and delivering on the biggest stage is another, but the 20-year-old left-footed defender — who has stood out visually by wearing a protective face mask after breaking his nose against Freiburg in November — has more than lived up to his billing. In a Croatia side that have only conceded two goals (excluding the penalty shootout against Japan), Gvardiol has exuded tremendous confidence and authority in defence — winning nearly 70% of his duels — while being safe and constructive in possession.
While it’s the attacking players on show at a World Cup that tend to attract the greatest attention — they operate with the luxury of creative autonomy, being allowed to float, exchange positions and attempt individual actions without suffering match-defining consequences — Gvardiol has conducted himself impeccably in one of the most demanding roles, where which a sole misjudgement, failed anticipation or positional error can lead to a goal for the opposition.
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