Dalić admits mistakes, highlights Modrić-Kovačić midfield issue after Panama win

Zagreb – Croatia's national football team coach Zlatko Dalić admitted to significant dissatisfaction with his team's performance despite their crucial 1-0 World Cup victory over Panama. Dalić stated that the team played under pressure and appeared constrained, leading to his strong reactions during the match.

"We played under pressure and were tense. That's why I reacted so strongly during the first break because I wanted to change it. Long balls were destroying us; every second ball was theirs. That's why I was angry, but it turned out well. We have to forget this match and turn to Ghana," Dalić said after the game. He expressed surprise at Panama's quality, speed, and organization, commending their coach.

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We played under pressure and were tense. That's why I reacted so strongly during the first break because I wanted to change it. Long balls were destroying us; every second ball was theirs. That's why I was angry, but it turned out well. We have to forget this match and turn to Ghana.

Dalić acknowledged his own tactical missteps, particularly the decision to field Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić together in midfield, a pairing he had previously expressed doubts about. He noted that both players were not at their best and the midfield lacked dynamism, with players operating too deep. The decision to start Petar Musa instead of Ante Budimir upfront was also questioned, although Budimir ultimately scored the winning goal after coming on as a substitute.

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I wasn't happiest with the play, especially the defensive phase in the first half. I will forget it and focus on what awaits us.

"I wasn't happiest with the play, especially the defensive phase in the first half. I will forget it and focus on what awaits us," Dalić added. He recognized that Budimir's profile better suited the opponent than Musa's, and Budimir's presence in the penalty area should have been a priority against Panama's low defensive block. Dalić is aware of his mistakes and aims to improve for future matches.

The article also touches upon the team's celebration of Luka Modrić, with players seen throwing him in the air and wearing special shirts in his honor. However, the focus remains on Dalić's critical assessment of the team's performance and his strategic considerations moving forward in the tournament.

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The opponent surprised me with their quality, speed, and organization. All congratulations to their coach.