Panama's Carrasquilla eager to face idol Modrić at World Cup

Panamanian midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla is counting down the hours until he can face his idol, Croatian star Luka Modrić, at the World Cup. Carrasquilla, 27, is considered Panama's equivalent to Modrić, tasked with distributing the ball in a passing-oriented system.

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My dream is to play against Croatia, and I am very excited because Modrić has always been a player I followed.

Carrasquilla, who previously played for Houston Dynamo and Cartagena before joining Mexican club Pumas, was named CONCACAF's best player in 2024, surpassing talents like Christian Pulisic and Alphonso Davies. He expressed his excitement about playing against Croatia, stating Modrić has always been his favorite player and that they share many similar characteristics.

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We have many similar characteristics, and he is my favorite player.

Carrasquilla is a key player for Panama, coached by Thomas Christiansen, who favors a style inspired by Johan Cruyff. The upcoming match against Croatia in Toronto is crucial for both teams, as both suffered defeats in their opening games. Modrić, playing in his fifth World Cup, leads a Croatian team that was runner-up in 2018 and third in 2022.

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I will send a message to Luka that in that match, God willing, he should save his jersey and you should exchange it.

However, Carrasquilla's participation is uncertain due to a muscle injury sustained in May. His return is seen as vital for Panama's chances against a stronger opponent. Teammate Alberto Quintero emphasized Carrasquilla's motivation and the significant contribution he makes when fully fit. A victory would boost Panama's hopes of advancing in their second World Cup appearance.

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I would be grateful for that opportunity to get his jersey.