Euro 2008 Preview: Austria v Croatia

Austria have yet to name their team, but captain Andreas Ivanschitz says they will start with two forwards.

Croatia defender Vedran Corluka has shaken off a knock on his Achilles tendon, which he picked up on Friday. And coach Slaven Bilic sprung no surprises in his team selection, and will send out his side in their traditional 4-4-2 line-up. In the absence of the injured Eduardo da Silva, Croatia's attack will be led by Mladen Petric and Ivica Olic.

Croatia's defence is considered a weaker part of their team and Ivanschitz made it clear Austria will try to take advantage of that percieved frailty. He said: "Their central defence is vulnerable. With our fleet-footed strikers, we can hurt them."

However, Croatia's midfield is rated as very strong with skilful playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar pulling the strings. Dario Srna - the main supplier of crosses - and veteran captain Niko Kovac will provide able support. Up front Petric has scored nine goals in 21 appearances for Croatia, while Olic has hit nine in 51 internationals.

BIG MATCH STATS
Head-to-heads

Austria and Croatia have met three times before, all encounters were friendlies.

Croatia won all three matches, most recently on 23 May 2006 when they won 4-1 in Vienna. Ivan Klasnic (2), Bosko Balaban and Marko Babic scored for the visitors. Andreas Ivanschitz scored the only goal for Austria.

Team facts - Austria

Are making their European Championship debut. Four nations have won this tournament on their debut. They are: Soviet Union (1960), Spain (1964), Italy (1968), West Germany (1972). The last host nation to win this tournament was France in 1984.

Austria's 5-1 win over Malta in their final warm-up match marked just their second win in the last 16 matches.