Euro2008 Preview: Quarter-final ~ Croatia v Turkey

Croatia's Ivan Rakitic has declared himself fit ahead of Friday's Euro 2008 quarter-final against Turkey. Darijo Srna has also overcome a thigh strain and should start but knee injuries have ruled Dario Knezevic and Igor Budan out of the tournament.

Turkey goalkeeper and captain Volkan Demirel is suspended so 35-year-old Rustu Recber is set for his 117th cap. Defender Servet Cetin has a knee injury and Mehmet Aurelio is banned while Emre Gungor and Gokhan Zan may miss out too. Coach Fatih Terim said: "We have 15 footballers, two goalkeepers and we can make three substitutions. That is what we have." Rakitic, who was struggling with a knee problem, told reporters: "I am 100%. I came through training without any problems and I can't wait for the match to begin. We know what we are capable of and we want to prove our worth against the Turks."

Croatia's captain, Niko Kovac, has announced he will end his international career after the tournament. "This could be my last match for Croatia, but let's hope it isn't as I have a feeling we can do much more here than just the quarter-finals," said the 36-year-old Red Bull Salzburg midfielder. Kovac has made 78 appearances for his country, scoring 13 goals. Meanwhile, reserve defender Dario Knezevic has a knee injury, while striker Igor Budan has foot problem.

BIG MATCH STATS
Head-to-heads

Croatia are unbeaten in three previous matches against Turkey (one win and two draws).

At Euro '96 Croatia beat Turkey 1-0 in the group stage, through an 85th-minute goal by Goran Vlaovic. Fatih Terim was also head coach of Turkey in that match, while Croatia's current head coach, Slaven Bilic, played in that game.

Team facts - Croatia

Equalled their best ever performance in European Championships.