June 14, 2024 – Zlatko Dalić and Luka Modrić addressed the press ahead of Croatia’s EURO 2024 opener against Spain in Berlin on Saturday.
Croatia opens EURO 2024 at Olympiastadion in Berlin against Spain. Croatia plays in what many are calling the ‘group of death’, facing Albania and Italy after Spain tomorrow.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić and captain Luka Modrić addressed the press 24 hours before kick-off.
Luka was asked the first question.
“I don’t like to compare to the success of other generations. There is a good mix of experience and young players. They are very quick, especially on wings. This Spain team is quality.
We are excited about the game. We have played Spain many times. We need to be good in every aspect of the game and be careful of the details, as they will make the difference. We want a good result. We are at the top of world football, but we are waiting for that step to do something very big with this team.”
Is Croatia still a dark house, considering their success since 2018?
“I don’t really care if people consider us a favorite or not. We can only show what we can do with our game and our fighting spirit.
I have always believed in myself. If someone gave me a paper to write what I want to achieve – that is gold with Croatia. I am happy to be at another major tournament. I remember how amazing the atmosphere was at the Euros in 2016 and I hope it will be that way tomorrow and that we will give our fans a reason to celebrate.”
What is carrying the team?
“Our togetherness. We have more or less a similar team as we had in Qatar. We have some new players that are bringing fresh energy. I am happy Ivan Perišić is back. But once again, our biggest strength is our togetherness. If we are the team we know we can be, we will get the good result.
The group is very tough, maybe the toughest in the tournament. We showed in the last few years that we are among the best teams in the world, and I hope we will show that again at the Euros. “
Dalić confirmed that Croatia has the toughest Croatia.
“We want to win with the utmost respect for our opponents. We know tomorrow will be tough and very active, but I truly believe in my team.”
Dalić was a fan in 2006 in Germany.
“I expect even more Croatia fans tomorrow. We have everything, but we also have quality. I am happy Perišić is back, every training is better and better. We have 15 players I can count on at any moment. I hope no players will fall out.
“Gvardiol is a young player with an even better career ahead of him. He has energy and quality, and will close down the Spain attack as we need him to tomorrow.”
What is the key against Spain?
“Spain plays phenomenally, with incredible possession. They defend well. In the Nations League final the game was even. I don’t like to play the possession game like Spain.”
Dalić won’t reveal the lineup.
“I’ve known it for a while, haha. I have the right to be an optimist and I am optimistic about my team. Everyone is healthy and will train tonight.”
