Luka Modrić's likely final home game for Croatia marked by goal and ovation

The Croatian national football team bid an emotional farewell to its captain, Luka Modrić, during a friendly match against Slovenia in Varaždin. The 40-year-old midfielder, a national icon, is widely believed to have played his last game on Croatian soil, a moment marked by a standing ovation from the crowd.

Modrić, who has captained the team for years and led them to significant international success, including two World Cup medals, scored a masterful goal in the 51st minute of the match. This goal was his 29th for the national team, adding another memorable moment to his illustrious career. The match itself was a send-off for the team as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup in America, with the crowd and officials expressing their gratitude and well wishes.

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Professor, Doctor Luka Modrić!

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with fans rising to applaud Modrić in the 57th minute as he left the field. The stadium announcer, Frano Ridjan, referred to him as "Professor, Doctor Luka Modrić," highlighting his esteemed status. Modrić's 198 appearances for Croatia place him in elite company, matching Lionel Messi's record for Argentina and trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Badr Al-Mutawa in all-time international caps.

While Modrić has not officially announced his retirement from international football, signals from his club career in Italy suggest his playing days are nearing an end. The upcoming World Cup in America is expected to be his final tournament for Croatia. The nation now looks to their captain to lead them one last time, hoping for another medal.

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Thank you, Luka, for everything you have given us, and now lead us to America for another medal!