Croatia would be happy with draw against Brazil

BAD BRUECKENAU, Germany, June 11 (Reuters) Croatia's players and coach would be pleased to launch their World Cup campaign with a draw against champions Brazil in Berlin on Tuesday.

''Ninety-nine percent of the world is saying Brazil are favourites. A draw would be a success,'' midfielder Igor Tudor told reporters after being named in the team today.

''It would be a sensation if we won.'' Coach Zlatko Kranjcar's side contained no surprises, with Tudor one of a five-man midfield.

Team mate Niko Kranjcar, who scored in a 1-1 friendly draw with Brazil in Split last August, agreed with Tudor's views.

''Every team wants to avoid losing to Brazil,'' said midfielder Kranjcar. ''It is a big result if that happens.'' Croatia can take heart from last year's result but there will be one major difference on Tuesday.

''The difference is Ronaldinho. He will play,'' said coach Kranjcar.

But Kranjcar senior said his team would not simply lie down.

''We are not waving the white flag. As you saw yesterday, there can be surprises,'' he said referring to 10-man Trinidad&Tobago's 0-0 draw with Sweden.

''It would not be such a big surprise if we beat Brazil.'' Tudor tipped Croatia to finish second in Group F, which also includes Japan and Australia.

''We are favourites to be second in the group. We don't hide that,'' said Tudor.

REUTERS PDS BST1926