3-0 win in an empty Maksimir stadium
Well, first game of Croatia’s new national football team head coach is behind us, and since the final score was 3-0 against a very bleak Bulgarian team, there’s nothing much we can say in terms of any changes or improvements in the actual game.
Photo by HINA
Since the game was played in an empty Maksimir stadium due to UEFA’s punishment, it actually looked more like a training session under heavy rain that an actual EURO 2016 qualifying game. Croatia took an early lead when Perišić scored after a fantastic pass by Modrić. After few very good chances by Vida, Kalinić, and almost an own goal by Aleksandrov, Rakitić finally scored for 2-0 just few minutes before half-time.
Kalinić scored in the second half for the final 3-0 while the Bulgarian team only had two good chances in the whole second half. Croatia ended the game one man down after the dismissal of Duje Čop who was shown a direct red card.
In its final qualifying game in group stage Croatia will play against Malta, however, even a win will not secure direct qualifications since both Italy and Norway were successful in their matches today and it will all come down to their next match.
