October 9, 2019 – As most everyone in Croatia is already well aware, Croatia and Hungary will meet at Poljud stadium in Split on Thursday for a crucial Euro 2020 qualifier. This is the first time the national team has played in Split since 2015, and sold-out stadium awaits. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic and captain Luka Modric spoke to the media on Wednesday at Poljud ahead of the game.
The Croatia national team moved to Split this week to prepare for their Euro 2020 qualifier against Hungary. The team is staying at the Le Meridien Lav Hotel and trained in Omis before moving to Poljud for a night training on Wednesday evening. Before the team trained on Wednesday, coach Zlatko Dalic and captain Luka Modric met the press.
The press conference started congratulating Luka for his goal against Granada.
“Thank you. But the biggest thing is for us to win tomorrow in front of our fans.”
How does Luka feel about being back in Split?
“Everything is good so far haha. We are happy to be back at Poljud after such a long time. I expect a lot of support tomorrow and that the fans will carry us to a win. We can’t wait to be back here.”
What is the biggest factor in Croatia achieving a positive result on Thursday?
“It’s most important how we enter the game. We must all play together on the same level. Hungary showed their quality already and that they’re dangerous. It’s a big game, and we must win to get through these qualifications and qualify for Euro peacefully.”
How much psychological pressure is Luka feeling as captain, being back at Poljud, and playing in front of Dalmatia again?
“There is no pressure; we are only thinking positively. It’s been a long time since we have been here, and the atmosphere will be excellent.”
It was Dalic’s turn to take the mic.
“We respect Hungary. It doesn’t matter that they’re missing a few players. We need to give everything we have tomorrow. We can’t enter the game nervously. We must play with our heads and our hearts.”
Kickoff is on Thursday at 8:45 pm.
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