Croatia eyes month-long World Cup stay in USA after Slovenia win

Croatia's national football team is setting its sights on a month-long stay in the USA for the upcoming World Cup, as indicated by defender Martin Erlić. The team recently concluded their final preparation match with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Slovenia. Erlić, who scored in the match, highlighted the positive team atmosphere, a blend of experienced and young players, which he believes is crucial for their success in America. "We maintain the mentality and good atmosphere, that's what characterizes us Croats. That will be very important for us in America. I hope we will be there for a month, that would be great," Erlić stated. Midfielder Mario Pašalić, who scored the winning goal, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the win for morale after a previous loss. "We needed this victory after the defeat in Rujevica, for a more positive atmosphere and an easier departure to America. I think we played well, despite the close score," Pašalić commented. Both players acknowledged that there are still areas to improve, such as concentration and capitalizing on chances, but expressed confidence that these issues can be addressed before their opening match against England. Slovenia's coach, Boštjan Cesar, who has connections with many Croatian players and staff, expressed his support for Croatia's journey in the tournament, hoping they can go far. The team is now focused on final preparations before heading to the USA.

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Trebala nam je ova pobjeda nakon poraza na Rujevici, radi pozitivnije atmosfere i lakšeg odlaska u Ameriku. Mislim da smo dobro igrali, unatoč tijesnom rezultatu. Kreirali smo dosta šansi, iako su i oni nama napravili par kontri, ali imamo vremena to poboljšati i mislim da će to dobro izgledati na Svjetskom prvenstvu. Moj gol? Donio je nam pobjedu, idemo s osmijehom na licu i jedva čekamo SP. Kako ću provesti slobodan dan? S obitelji, u krugu najbližih. Na prvenstvu očekujem prolazak grupe pa ćemo dalje vidjeti.