Croatian Football Federation President Confirms Dalić Stays, Eyes Portugal Clash

Zlatko Dalić will continue as the head coach of the Croatian national football team, with the Croatian Football Federation's (HNS) president, Marijan Kustić, unequivocally stating his desire for Dalić to remain in charge. "We sat down and shook hands. Our desire is Zlatko Dalić, and that is unquestionable," Kustić told RTL. However, he stressed that the team's immediate focus is on their next challenge: a match against Portugal.

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We sat down and shook hands. Our desire is Zlatko Dalić, and that is unquestionable. But, the focus is now on Portugal.

Kustić revealed the immense pressure he felt before the critical game against Ghana, admitting it was the most intense he had experienced as HNS president. He recounted a moment in an elevator where captain Luka Modrić, noticing Kustić's anxiety, offered reassurance. "At one point, he looked at me and said, 'Mr. President, don't shake. We will win today.' That's when I saw that we could really succeed," Kustić shared, underscoring Modrić's pivotal role and the team's winning mentality.

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At one point, he looked at me and said, 'Mr. President, don't shake. We will win today.' That's when I saw that we could really succeed.

Describing Modrić as a "phenomenon," Kustić hailed him not only as the greatest player in Croatian football history but also among the world's elite. The HNS president attributed the team's success to their strong sense of unity, which he considers their greatest asset. He also praised the players' unwavering focus, noting that despite advancing, they immediately shifted their attention to preparing for the Portugal match, with no excessive celebrations.

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Not only is he the greatest we have had in the history of Croatian football, but he is also one of the greatest in the history of world football.

Looking ahead to the knockout stage match against Portugal, Kustić expressed optimism. "With good preparation and the support of phenomenal fans, I deeply hope for a victory and to advance further," he stated. He pointed to the captain's commitment, even in the 90th minute, as an example for younger players. "We need to enjoy this, but the players are already preparing for Portugal today," Kustić concluded, emphasizing the team's determined approach.

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With good preparation and the support of phenomenal fans, I deeply hope for a victory and to advance further.