Modrić surprises journalists with cake to celebrate 200th national team appearance
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Croatia captain Luka Modrić celebrated his 200th national team appearance by treating journalists to cake.
- Coach Zlatko Dalić also attended the press conference following a 1-0 victory over Panama.
- Modrić's milestone places him among football legends like Messi and Ronaldo.
Croatian national team captain Luka Modrić marked his historic 200th appearance for the team with a sweet gesture for the press. Following Croatia's 1-0 victory against Panama in the second round of the World Cup group stage, coach Zlatko Dalić addressed the media.
During the press conference, spokesperson Tomislav Pacak conveyed Modrić's message of thanks to the journalists for their support throughout his 200 caps. The captain, who had spoken extensively after the match, opted not to repeat himself but ensured his appreciation was felt.
Luka said that he spoke a lot after the match yesterday, so he wouldn't repeat himself now, and the coach is also at the press conference. He certainly thanks you journalists for your support and for following these 200 appearances for the national team.
To commemorate the incredible milestone, Modrić surprised the assembled journalists with a cake. This celebration highlighted his achievement of reaching 200 national team appearances, a feat matched only by football icons like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Bader Al-Mutawa.
Modrić debuted for the senior national team in 2006 and has since played in five World Cups, leading Croatia to a silver and a bronze medal. He also earned the Golden Ball at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. His extensive career includes appearances for various youth national teams before his senior debut.
Luka wanted you to treat yourselves.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.