World Cup

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Attendance: 41,212

World Cup | Group Stage

Jun 23, 2014 at 9pm UK

Croatia
1-3
Mexico

Perisic (87')
Rebic (90')

FT(HT: 0-0)

Marquez (72'), Guardado (75'), Hernandez (82')

Ivan Rakitic calls for "perfect game" against Mexico to qualify

By Sam Hughes, Reporter

Published: June 22 2014 | 10:03

Last updated: June 23 2014 | 17:40

Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic calls on his side to produce the "perfect game" in their crucial clash against Mexico to secure qualification for the second round.

Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic has called on his side to produce the "perfect game" to beat Mexico and qualify for the second round of the World Cup.

Niko Kovac's men need a win in the clash against Mexico on Monday to set up a last 16 encounter with either Netherlands or Chile.

Rakitic, who has agreed to join Barcelona this summer, has warned his side to be wary of Mexico's quality as they search for the three points needed to qualify.

"Of course, they have a really great team. Also in the defence and in the attack but I think that Mexico also played really strong football," the 26-year-old told reporters.

"They have a good idea and know to attack, they have everything really perfectly prepared and again it will be really hard for us but we want to go through like Mexico too and for that we will have to work.

"I hope that the Mexican players have to think about our team so we can make the perfect game because we need to be ready."

Rakitic has earned 64 caps for Croatia since making his debut in 2007.