Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic has disclosed that he already has a firm idea of what his starting XI would be ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup in Russia starting with the team’s opening clash with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

He said this while talking to local media outlet, Sportske Novosti.

Dalic said: “I got a clue in my head. I think every coach knows the first 11 for the World Cup. But certainly there is space for one or two changes. You have to have a vision, so you can do it.”

Croatia have already sealed friendly meetings with fellow World Cup teams Peru and Mexico during the next Fifa window in March, and Dalic further revealed that his team should face an African style to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a friendly before Russia 2018.

He said: “That’s my plan to check in early June, and then on June 8 or 9 before leaving Russia. The other should be an African national team with a similar style to Nigeria.”

Croatia and Nigeria will face off at the Kalingrad Stadium in Kalingrad, Russia on June 16 in what would be their Group D opening game.

Two-time champions Argentina and debutants Iceland are the other occupants in the group.