Croatia boss Otto Baric has a tricky selection dilemma for the winner-takes-all match with England on Monday at Lisbon’s Estadio da Luz.

Croatia coach Otto Baric has been reconciled with his most illustrious predecessor Miroslav Blazevic, who has apologised for his criticism of Baric in the Croatian media.

FRANCE coach Jacques Santini knows victory in their second Euro 2004 match against Croatia today would allow him the luxury of resting key players for their final group game.

CROATIAN footballers will not be seeking divine inspiration in a visit to a Roman Catholic shrine ahead of a key Euro 2004 game with France, their coach said yesterday.

Croatia claim they will be satisfied with a point against European champions France as they believe the key to qualification lies in beating England in their final match.

Switzerland defender Stephane Henchoz admits there is little anyone can do to stop Michael Owen when he is at his blistering best.

Switzerland will launch an all-out attack on Croatia in tomorrow’s Group B opener in a bid to lay the platform for qualification for the knock-out stages.

The latest news from Portugal:

Croatia’s deputy goalkeeper Tomislav Butina seems certain to start in Sunday’s Euro 2004 Group B opener against Switzerland with first-choice Stipe Pletikosa likely to be out injured.

Croatia goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa is expected to miss his side’s opening Group B clash with Switzerland on Sunday after tearing a thigh muscle in training.

Switzerland midfielder Johann Vogel handed coach Kobi Kuhn a major boost today when he promised that he will be fit for Sunday’s Euro 2004 opener against Croatia.

Switzerland started their preparations for Sunday’s opening Euro 2004 clash with Group B rivals Croatia in earnest today.

England 3 Croatia 1

By James Whelan

DEFENDING champions France started their Euro 2004 qualifying campaign with a stuttering 2-1 win over Cyprus in Nicosia on Saturday.