The main reason for my pick is Yossi Benayoun. He is the captain and the best player in Israel national team, he scored all three goals so far in qualifications and he is the leader of the team. But he is injured at the moment and won't play here. Israel coach Fernandez has no adequate replacement. Even more, three other players are also injured - Beram Kayal and Omer Damari are out, while Lior Rafaelov is doubtful. But even if doctors decide Rafaelov to play it is big question how prepared he is.

The tradition is also on Croatian side. This two national teams were in the same group in previous qualifications for EURO 2008 in Austria and Switzerland. And Croatia won the both matches, 1:0 at home and 4:3 on road.

I know that Croatian coach Slaven Bilic has also some problems as Dario Srna is suspended, while Mladen Petric and Nikica Jelavic are injured, but he will find some other solutions. I expect Croatia to control the ball during the game and I think they will score. On other side Israel is playing at home and the pressure will be on them. Without Benayoun it will be very hard for them. Simply, the quality is on Croatian side.