Croatia Coach Hits Back at Doubters, Lauds Modric

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic fiercely defended his team against critics, declaring they had rediscovered their old form with a crucial 2-1 World Cup victory over Ghana. This win propelled the 2018 runners-up and 2022 semi-finalists into the last 32, quelling concerns after a mixed start to the tournament that included a heavy loss to England and a narrow win over Panama.

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I would like to congratulate the players for going to the knockout stage. It was a difficult match, but I think Croatia played an excellent match in a tactical sense and positioned itself well.

"I think we're back to where we were, like eight years ago," Dalic stated, emphasizing that reaching the knockout stage was just the first objective. He expressed frustration with the "suspicion" surrounding his team's quality, calling some commentary "pitiful." Dalic asserted that the national team, with its dedicated fanbase, deserves unwavering support regardless of match outcomes.

Veteran midfielder Luka Modric, playing in his final World Cup at age 40, delivered a standout performance. He became the oldest player since 1966 to record an assist, providing the corner for Nikola Vlasic's match-winning header. Modric also showcased tenacious defense, actively blocking Ghana's shots and pressuring their attackers throughout the game.

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I think we're back to where we were, like eight years ago. But that's again a small step to achieve the first objective, to go to the knockout stage.

"Luka was truly fantastic... That's his character and his energy," Dalic lauded. "He's aware that this is the last World Cup and he's trying to do his best." Dalic also took credit for motivating attacker Vlasic, who was promoted to the starting lineup and scored the decisive goal with a powerful header, a performance Dalic had predicted.

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This national team deserves better because we had so many fans rooting for Croatia. Even when losing or winning, they should be loved because of everything they have done for the people and for the country. This needs to be appreciated and not go against it the moment they lose.

Croatia is scheduled to face Portugal in Toronto in the round of 32. Dalic's tactical decisions, including starting Vlasic, proved instrumental in securing the vital win.

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Luka was truly fantastic ... That's his character and his energy. He's aware that this is the last World Cup and he's trying to do his best ... I hope that he will be healthy and that he stays with the Croatians for as long as possible.