World Cup 2018: Top 5 dark horses in Russia

#4 Croatia

Croatia is placed in group D

Placed in group D along with Argentina, Iceland and Nigeria are Croatia. Like Switzerland, the Croats have a tough group in hand, but they have a pretty balanced side that could take them far in the competition.

Croatia is managed by countryman Zlatko Dalic and has been in charge since October 2017. The team has only lost one of the five games that they played after the arrival of the 51-year-old.

Vatreni have got players who have gained experience playing for top teams in Europe's best five leagues. Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic, Mateo Kovacic, Mario Mandzukic, Ivan Perisic and Dejan Lovren are only a few of them.

If all these stars can find the perfect sync between them, there is no doubt that Croatia is strong enough to pip their group opponents to be come out as leaders.

Star Players - Luka Modric & Ivan Rakitic

Dalic will want the Real Madrid and Barcelona midfield maestros to be firing on all cylinders to increase his hopes of success in the tournament.

Ivan Rakitic won the La Liga title this season, while Luka Modric will be joining the side on the back of yet another UEFA Champions League triumph with Los Blancos.