Nikica Jelavic: 'Croatia have nothing to lose against Brazil'

Nikica Jelavic has insisted that Croatia have no reason to fear Brazil ahead of the opening game of the World Cup on Thursday.

Despite heading into the game as underdogs against the hosts and pre-tournament favourites, Jelavic claims that Croatia will be positive against their Group A rivals as they look to take a step towards the knockout stages.

"It's the kind of game you dream about," the Hull City striker told the Daily Mail. "Brazil are my favourites for the tournament but we have quality players too. We can qualify, we have nothing to lose.

"On the pitch, it is 11 against 11 and we believe the Croatian first XI can play against any team."

Croatia will also meet Cameroon and Mexico in Group A.