World Cup qualifying returns on Friday, as Croatia continues their journey to Russia. It should be a fascinating match against a rejuvenated Ukraine side managed by legendary striker Andriy Shevchenko. Ukraine is currently two points behind Croatia in Group I. For the first time in two years, Croatia will actually play behind their supporters in a competitive game. The lengthy … [Read more...] about How Croatia Should Adjust Without 3 Key Starters Against Ukraine
Remaining invested in the Croatia national team
By 90 CommentsSeparating the beautiful game from politics can be challenging. Between 2012-2013, I stopped watching the sport and closely following the national team. Former manager Igor Stimac changed the formation for every qualifying match. Inserting Sammir into the squad was an insult. The inclusion of Davor Suker as president only increased poor morale surrounding a once-exciting … [Read more...] about Remaining invested in the Croatia national team
Evaluating Croatia’s national team following Euro 2016
By 21 CommentsAfter two weeks of processing Croatia’s harsh exit from Euro 2016, it’s time to evaluate the entire squad’s performance and future. This was a very productive tournament for almost every player on the national team. With only one player expected to retire, they should carry the positive momentum going into 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Here is my brief evaluation for every … [Read more...] about Evaluating Croatia’s national team following Euro 2016
Another major tournament, another cruel ending
By 780 CommentsThere were a fair amount of groans about Croatia drawing Portugal in the round of 16. A somewhat favorable matchup against Iceland seemed to be on the cards. That notion ended when they scored on a last-second counter attack against Austria, which resulted in one of the greatest commentary moments ever. It also meant that Croatia was going to face an underachieving Portugal … [Read more...] about Another major tournament, another cruel ending
An improbable victory showcases quality of depth and young talent
By 182 CommentsWhen it comes to mentalities, Croatians tend to have an “us against the world” mindset. In the past two major tournaments, they’ve played against both tournament finalists and host nation. They’ve been on the receiving end of terrible decisions favoring the biggest nations. From Vedran Corluka’s jersey being torn apart in the box against Spain to Fred falling down as if Dejan … [Read more...] about An improbable victory showcases quality of depth and young talent
Moving Forward
By 8 CommentsWhenever an uncontrollable incident transpires during a game, there is nothing productive about hindering on the setback. The disturbing scenes in the crowd left a damaging effect on the national team. Croatia couldn’t respond following the ongoing flares and disorder within their fan section. Their body language expressed a team that wanted to survive rather than continuing to … [Read more...] about Moving Forward
An inspired team effort brings much-needed optimism back to Croatia
By 125 CommentsThere were several lingering questions surrounding Croatia going into Euro 2016. Disregard the ongoing turmoil within the federation. Nobody knew what to make of a talented squad that hadn’t played consistently well for a sustainable period of time since 2012. Would Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic finally play well together? Can Mario Mandzukic regain his scoring excellence? Will … [Read more...] about An inspired team effort brings much-needed optimism back to Croatia
Can an endless problem at defensive midfielder be solved at Euro 2016?
By 106 CommentsFollowing a shaky qualifying campaign, several questions surrounded Croatia’s squad. Left back, holding midfielder, and an attacking winger opposite Ivan Perisic have been problematic positions over the past two years. Relying on declining players such as Ivica Olic and Danijel Pranjic proved to be detrimental. A lack of development at those positions is another reason behind … [Read more...] about Can an endless problem at defensive midfielder be solved at Euro 2016?
Euro 2016 Preview
By 118 CommentsFor the first time in several years, there is no clear-cut favorite going into a major international tournament. Germany suffered from a World Cup hangover during their qualifying campaign. They looked shaky at times, while Spain looked dominant. France is an obvious favorite based on their squad and home advantage. Belgium and England are trendy upwards as potential … [Read more...] about Euro 2016 Preview