There was plenty to like about Croatia despite their opening defeat to Brazil at World Cup 2014 and they are tipped to have way too much for Cameroon on Wednesday.
A win for the European side would set up a winner-takes-all clash with Mexico next Monday and neither would be pushovers for their Last 16 opponents.
Mexico were more than a match for Brazil in the goalless draw which saw the hosts cement their position at the top of Group A on Tuesday and it is the Africans that look the weak link in the section.
Cameroon were flattered to be on the end of 1-0 defeat to Rafael Marquez’s side and the excellent Croatian spine is expected to dominate in Manaus.
Midfielders Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic were magnificent in La Liga last season for Real Madrid and Sevilla respectively and the pair more than held their own against the Brazilians in the first round of fixtures.
The Croatian price is disappearing fast but Cameroon were uninterested for much of the 90 minutes against Mexico and manager Volke Finke has a massive task to raise his troops.
His players were reluctant to board the plane to Brazil following a pre-tournament dispute over bonuses but they could well be the first side sent packing and even a rallying cry from veteran striker Samuel Eto'o would be unlikely to have the desired effect.
Eto’o cut a lacklustre figure against Mexico and the Chelsea man is in the twilight of his career.
Cameroon simply don’t have the quality to keep possession for any sustained spells of an international match against this calibre of side and that is in stark contrast to their upcoming opponents.
Croatia rate decent value at the remaining 8/13 on offer.
3pts Back Croatia (vs. Cameroon) @ 8/13 (various)