Croatia no longer control their own destiny to qualify for Euro 2016 directly. After a goal-less draw against Azerbaijan on Thursday and a 2-0 defeat in Norway, Croatia fall to third place in Group H, which would put them into a two-legged playoff in November. So what happened? -Croatia couldn't score one goal against Azerbaijan or Norway in 180 … [Read more...] about Meltdown In Oslo
Croatia
Mario Mandzukic and Niko Kovac face immense pressure going into Sunday.
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The idea of coasting through an easy win during yesterday’s game seemed highly unlikely. With the inclusion of Croatian legend Robert Prosinecki as manager, Azerbaijan has looked more cohesive. The positive results from beating Malta at home and drawing Norway in Oslo were encouraging. They haven’t conceded a goal in 180 minutes under Prosinecki’s tenure. Should these … [Read more...] about Mario Mandzukic and Niko Kovac face immense pressure going into Sunday.
Lethargic Croatians Draw 0-0 In Azerbaijan
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When Croatia and Azerbaijan met last October in Osijek, the Vatreni easily dismantled their competition 6-0 in front of 15,000 happy fans. They meet again in Baku Thursday with only four matches remaining in Euro qualifying. The question is: will the real Croatia show up who can score goals with ease against a lesser talented Azerbaijan side or will Croatia's Jekyl … [Read more...] about Lethargic Croatians Draw 0-0 In Azerbaijan
The Rise (And Fall) Of Slaven Bilić
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On July 21st, I ventured out to Pasadena, California (well out of San Pedro range) to catch the friendly match between Barcelona and L.A. Galaxy at the Rose Bowl. I was looking to speak with both Ivan Rakitić and Alen Halilović (Croatian national team players) on the upcoming season. Unfortunately, they declined to give any type of formal interview. However, during … [Read more...] about The Rise (And Fall) Of Slaven Bilić
Croatian Road To Russia Unveiled
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The 2018 World Cup qualifying schedule was released on Saturday. And even with Croatia coming out of Pot 1, the strongest Europe has to offer, the Vatreni dodged a huge bullet. Croatia was drawn last into Group I, which consists of former foes Iceland, Ukraine, Turkey and newcomers Finland. They avoided Group A, the Group of Death, which landed the Netherlands, … [Read more...] about Croatian Road To Russia Unveiled
Even Without Modrić And Ćorluka, Croatia Still Leaves A Lot To Be Desired
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On paper, it was another productive qualifying match for the Croatian national team. They earned a vital point to stay in first place (although that may change) against their main competitor. While both teams were always going to qualify, it was still an important test for Croatia. They were forced to play without two of their leaders in Luka Modrić and Vedran … [Read more...] about Even Without Modrić And Ćorluka, Croatia Still Leaves A Lot To Be Desired
Here We Go Again
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Even with an empty stadium, Croatia still couldn't keep themselves drama-free after the match. Eurosport has reported that the Italian Football Federation has formally complained about a 'swastika' etched in the Poljud pitch for the Croatia/Italy Euro 2016 qualifier Friday night in Split. The match was already being played behind closed doors due to racist fan behavior … [Read more...] about Here We Go Again
Vatreni Draw Italy 1-1 In Silent Split
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The Vatreni take on Italy Friday night in Split in front of an empty Poljud Stadion. With first place in Euro qualifying Group H on the line, Croatia can extend their lead and inch their way closer to France next summer with a win over the Italians. And remember, Croatia has never lost to their Adriatic neighbors in a competitive match. Not in qualifiers. Not in Euro. Not even … [Read more...] about Vatreni Draw Italy 1-1 In Silent Split
Croatia vs. Italy @ St. Anthony’s – Downtown Los Angles
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Join CroatianSports.com and Croatian Radio Program Friday morning in Downtown Los Angeles at St. Anthony's Church for Croatia's last match before the summer break as they take on Italy in front of an empty stadium at Poljud in Split in Euro 2016 qualifying. We will host the watch party in the big hall which can easily fit 300 people. All are welcome and there will be … [Read more...] about Croatia vs. Italy @ St. Anthony’s – Downtown Los Angles
