Separating 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
euro 2016
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
Croatia vs Portugal – Breaking A Curse
By 82 CommentsAfter a magnificent performance on Tuesday, Croatian fans’ hopes are sky high. Along with the fans, it looks like every major media outlet in Europe has labeled Croatia as a favorite to make it to the final. From dark horse, to possible expulsion, to the top team in the tournament, this has been one hell of a ride in such a small amount of time. That rollercoaster of … [Read more...] about Croatia vs Portugal – Breaking A Curse
Croatia Crumbles At The End After Fans Throw Flares On Pitch, Draw Czech 2-2
By 538 CommentsCroatia started today's match with confidence. From where they left off with Turkey, the Croatians continued a menacing attack from every angle. In the 38th minute Ivan Perišić took his defender one on one down the left side, cut in, and slotted a beautiful goal into the side of the net to put Croatia up 1-0. Czechs had shown some glimpses of being able to find gaps in the … [Read more...] about Croatia Crumbles At The End After Fans Throw Flares On Pitch, Draw Czech 2-2
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
Despite nearing retirement, Darijo Srna’s past big game performances could prove to be pivotal
By 60 CommentsWhenever a major tournament arises, there are several players taking part in their final tournament. A superstar such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be looking to make his mark in a difficult group. A country hero like Eiour Guojohnsen has been playing for Iceland since 1996. After twenty years of striving to play in a major tournament, this experience will be satisfying for the … [Read more...] about Despite nearing retirement, Darijo Srna’s past big game performances could prove to be pivotal
The case for defending Dejan Lovren against Ante Čačić
By 139 CommentsBefore recent major tournaments, Croatia has dealt with a looming distraction or notable injury that caused major concern. Ivica Olić’s injury before Euro 2012 was considered a major loss at the time. It was also Slaven Bilić’s last tournament, which was a sad moment for many fans. Before the World Cup in 2014, nobody knew what to expect from the largely inexperienced Niko … [Read more...] about The case for defending Dejan Lovren against Ante Čačić