Croatia's Familiar Tournament Pattern: Slow Start, Rising Momentum

Reuters is highlighting a recurring narrative for the Croatian national football team: a slow start to major tournaments that mirrors their successful campaigns in 2018 and 2022. The team, known as the 'Vatreni' (Blazers), opened their current championship with a significant 4-2 defeat against England. This was followed by a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama.

However, it was in their match against Ghana that Croatia began to display the form that has made them a formidable opponent in recent years. This resurgence suggests a pattern where the team gains momentum as the tournament progresses. This mirrors their previous World Cup performances, where they steadily improved, ultimately securing a silver medal in 2018 and a bronze in 2022 under coach Zlatko Dalić.

A notable aspect of Croatia's current campaign is the enduring presence and impact of Luka Modrić. At 40 years old, Modrić captained the team and provided an assist against Ghana, becoming the oldest player in World Cup history to achieve this feat. His continued influence underscores the team's blend of experience and emerging talent.

As Croatia prepares to face Portugal, Reuters notes that the team enters the match with considerably more confidence than after their initial group stage games. They are once again becoming a team that opponents fear, embodying the resilience and fighting spirit that has characterized their greatest successes on the world stage.