Croatia - Norway    (won)

Croatia is a big favorite in this match. Furthermore I think that Croatia will win this game, but I also think this will be very closed game. Croatia is official world vice champion, Croatia also have experienced and well-coordinated team, leading by very good couch Lino Cervar. All those facts puts them in the position of favorite. But just when I mention Lino Cervar, I must say  he is currently working in Macedonia (couching Metalurg Skopje). It certainly does not mean anything, but I think it is a small disadvantage compared to earlier period. As You probable know, Lino Cervar previously lead Zagreb and at the same time he had the best view in the form of those players that he coached in club and national team. But I say this is a small handicap. Much bigger handicap is injury of Tonci ValДЌiД‡. This is a big problem for Croatia because ValДЌiД‡ is the best defensive player, and in the same time one of the best players in the attack. I believe that his absencee in this game can be very important factor. On the other hand Norway has experienced and good team whose framework consists of veterans. On the goal is Steinar Ege, who already spent the fourth decade of life (has 38 years of age). The main stars are Havard Tvedten (Valladolid), Frank Loke (ex Zagreb player), Kristian Kjelling (ex player of San Antonio in Spain ), Erlund Mamelund, Kjetil Strand and Bjarte Myrhol. They may not be able to play more games in the continuity considering their age and I believe that they will get tired after the first two rounds, but as today is the first round, they will surely be rested and fresh. Because of that I expect they will make a lot of problems to Croats and they are able to cover this handicap.