DistantNews
Support us
Zlatko Dalić: Refereeing Was Very Bad for Us, and VAR Kills Emotions
🇭🇷 Croatia /Sports

Zlatko Dalić: Refereeing Was Very Bad for Us, and VAR Kills Emotions

From Večernji List · () Croatian

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Croatia's coach Zlatko Dalić criticized the refereeing and VAR decisions after their loss, stating they were unfair and killed the emotion of the game.
  • Dalić acknowledged Portugal's victory and wished them luck, but expressed disappointment with Croatia's exit.
  • He reflected on the end of a "beautiful era" for the Croatian national team, hinting at new beginnings after a disappointing World Cup finish.

Croatian national team coach Zlatko Dalić voiced strong criticism of the match officials and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system following his team's defeat, asserting that the decisions were detrimental to Croatia's performance and the spirit of football.

The refereeing was very bad for us, and VAR kills emotions.

— Zlatko DalićCriticizing the officiating and the impact of VAR on the game.

"The refereeing was very bad for us, and VAR kills emotions," Dalić stated in a press conference. He acknowledged Portugal's progression in the tournament, congratulating them and wishing them well. However, he lamented Croatia's exit, emphasizing that the team did not deserve such an outcome despite playing bravely. Dalić noted that while VAR can sometimes help, its current implementation excessively diminishes the emotional aspect of the game, making it difficult for players to cope.

I can only congratulate the guys. We didn't deserve this end.

— Zlatko DalićExpressing disappointment with the team's exit despite their efforts.

Dalić recounted the match, explaining that while the team initially focused on defense, they became the better side in the second half, creating numerous chances. He expressed regret over conceding a late equalizer and having a potential winning goal disallowed by VAR. The coach highlighted the emotional rollercoaster experienced by the players, which made the loss particularly difficult to bear. He also thanked the fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.

It's not easy to concede a goal in added time, and this has happened to us several times. A bad reaction in defense, but we got up, scored in the last minute to make it 2-2, and you think it's a goal, then VAR cancels it. It's a lot of emotions, up and down, and it's not easy to deal with.

— Zlatko DalićDescribing the emotional impact of VAR decisions on the team.

Reflecting on the team's journey, Dalić suggested that this World Cup might mark the end of a "beautiful era" for the Croatian national team. He acknowledged the contributions of veteran players, including Luka Modrić, who he believes played exceptionally well in what was likely his final World Cup. Dalić indicated that it is time for younger players to step into more prominent roles, building on the experiences gained.

This team has senators, but younger players are coming, and it's time for them to take the main roles, after gaining experience.

— Zlatko DalićDiscussing the future of the Croatian national team and the transition to new leadership.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog