June 17, 2023 – Croatia and Spain will meet in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday in Rotterdam. Coach Zlatko Dalić and Ivan Perišić addressed the press before the big match.
After beating the Netherlands in extra time on Wednesday, Croatia will play in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday at De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam. Croatia will face Spain, who beat Italy 2-1 in the second semi-final on Thursday.
In just five years, Croatia is in their second major final, with a historic chance to reach their first gold medal.
Perišić was asked the first question.
“It will be a tough game with players that play at the top clubs in the world, both in the starting lineup and on the bench. It will be a real final.”
Dalić answered about the lineup next.
“All players are healthy and ready, and we can count on all players for the game. We will see what we will do, whether we change something or not. It will be a good game, a big game, and we will give our maximum to finish on top. We will enjoy good football tomorrow.”
“We know where the payers player; we analyzed them today and will again tonight. We will prepare in the best way possible,” added Perišić. “We want to finish everything in 90 minutes. We are adapted to playing extra time, that is not a problem for us. And we are always ready for penalties.”
Dalić confirmed Croatia will be ready for extra time and that there are 6 players on the bench who are also prepared and ready to play.
“It was a big success for us to be among the final four, and now a big final is ahead of us. Spain always has the same style, keeps possession, and we have experience against them. We know what to expect. I believe we will be able to compete with them,” said Dalić.
“The core of the team is still here. Spain has a lot of young and new players. We have more experience than them. We already won the silver and bronze medals. Tomorrow we are waiting for the medal we are missing – gold,” said Perišić. “We play modern football, which I love and we all love. Spain has the same style. We are ready for the stadium to be full of Croatia fans.”
“Our fans really believe in us. If 25,000 Croatia fans come to Rotterdam, that tells you everything,” said Dalić. “We had a great World Cup in Qatar with a quality team. We slightly changed things in the last 6 months. Not having Gvardiol is a hit, but we are solid.”
“We don’t want to win this just for Luka, but for all of us. We have another final after Russia, we will give everything, and we hope this time will be it,” said Perišić.
“I think it’s 50/50 when it comes to favorites. This is a totally new game. We will enjoy this final with everything we have,” said Dalić. “Luka gives 100% every training, just like Brozović and Vida and everyone. It will be the crown for Luka and all of us to win this gold medal.”
Croatia and Spain meet in the final on Sunday at 20:45.
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