Argentina and Croatia will meet in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Russia on Thursday.

 Argentina and Croatia will meet in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Russia on Thursday.

 Argentina and Croatia will meet in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Russia on Thursday. Argentina have been impressive throughout the tournament, beating Iceland and Nigeria in the group stages before edging out France in the round of 16. Croatia, meanwhile, have been outstanding, topping their group and then beating Denmark and hosts Russia in the knockout stages.

For Argentina, Lionel Messi will be the key man as ever. He has been in superb form throughout the tournament, scoring three goals and setting up two more. He is likely to be supported in attack by Angel Di Maria and Sergio Aguero, while Lucas Biglia and Ever Banega should provide stability in midfield.

For Croatia, Luka Modric has been the star of the show. He has been the driving force in midfield, providing the creative spark in the team's attack. He will be supported by Ivan Rakitic and Ivan Perisic in midfield, while Mario Mandzukic and Andrej Kramaric are likely to lead the line.

In defence, Argentina have been solid throughout the tournament and will be looking to keep Croatia's attack quiet. Croatia have been impressive going forward and have the quality to cause Argentina problems.

The match is likely to be a close affair and could go either way. However, given Argentina's quality and experience, they should have enough to edge past Croatia and reach the final. Argentina to win 2-1.