Croatia coach Zlatko Kranjcar has insisted his side are capable of winning their World Cup opener against holders Brazil.

Group F is generally regarded as a race for second between Australia, Japan and Croatia, with the Selecao expected to coast through to the last 16.

Kranjcar sees things differently, particularly as his side held Brazil to a 1-1 draw in August last year.

"We are not waving the white flag," he said. "It would not be such a big surprise if we beat Brazil."

Kranjcar has already named his starting line-up, which will see his son, Niko, used in an attacking midfield role in a 3-5-2 formation.

Croatia team to face Brazil:

Pletikosa; Simic, Kovac, Simunic; Srna, Tudor, Kovac, Babic, Kranjcar; Klasnic, Prso.