Canada continues to look for their first ever goal in a FIFA World Cup as well as first point. On Sunday, a new opportunity to claim both will arise. Standing in their way is the finalist from four years ago, Croatia.

A defeat will see John Herdman’s men exit the tournament after their final group game next Thursday against Morocco. Here is a look at the likely starting 11 and what will be crucial for the Canadians as they look to keep hopes of progression alive.



Possible lineup



3-4-3: Borjan – Miller, Vitoria, Johnston – Adekugbe, Hutchinson, Eustqauio, Laryea – Davies, David, Buchanan



From his post-match interviews on Wednesday following their defeat to Belgium, Herdman spoke on how difficult it was to leave players out of the 11 who fully deserved to start. The one player who did not feature from the start that surprised many was Sam Adekugbe. Davies played on the left of the midfield instead, with the 27-year-old coming on with about 15 minutes to go.



I think he will be the one change in the team heading into Sunday’s clash with Croatia. This would allow Davies to play in a more attacking position right at the off. Either Ritchie Laryea or Junior Hoilett would make way for Adekugbe, quite possibly the latter. Buchanan would start on the right wing should Laryea start, or the right side of the midfield should Hoilett get the nod.



Keys to the match



One thing Canada did not do on Wednesday was score. They mustered 21 shots on the Belgian net but never actually beat Thibaut Courtois. Being clinical in the attacking third is a must for the Canadians if they wish to fair better this time around.



The other major thing they will want to do is mirror what Morocco did against Croatia in the first round of play. The North African side kept their European opponents from playing in the middle of the park, limiting captain Luka Modric from influencing the play. Canada did a sinilar thing on Wednesday, having much success out wide  Achieve that again and Canada will have a shot.