Are the next World Cup winners coming to Anfield?
The team destined for World Cup glory this summer will grace Anfield on Sunday, according to Liverpool legend Ian Rush.
Brazil, who are among the favourites to claim the trophy in Russia, continue their preparations for the tournament with a friendly against Croatia at the Reds’ home ground.
Tickets are on sale for the 3pm BST kick-off, which will feature a host of elite stars including our very own Roberto Firmino and Dejan Lovren.
Rush believes the game presents an opportunity to enjoy a glimpse of the next world champions. “They’re incredible and it will be great to see them all on the pitch at once,” said LFC’s all-time record goalscorer.
“I actually think Brazil will win the World Cup, they’ve got a great chance. The bookies are rarely wrong and they’ve got Brazil as favourites to win it.
“They’ve got such great depth in the squad – for most teams, injuries to key players really changes them, but Brazil could have four or five injured and still be just as strong.
“They’ve certainly got a point to prove after the last World Cup – they maybe should have won it, but they’ll certainly be more experienced this time around and know what to expect.”
Croatia arrive at Anfield with pedigree of their own, of course.
Lovren and his compatriots came through the European qualifying section via the play-offs, beating Greece 4-1 over two legs to feature in a group alongside Argentina, Iceland and Nigeria at the World Cup.
Rush expects Croatia to be up against it on Sunday but feels a positive result is possible if they can control one particular area of the pitch.
“If you’re going to stop Brazil playing, you’ve got to limit the space they have to work in. If you give Brazil room, they’ll destroy any team in the world,” he added.
“For Croatia, the result will depend on how hard they work to stop Brazil playing. I think the game will be won in that midfield duel, but Croatia will still have to defend really well.”