This week, Croatian fans were delighted to hear that the Euro 2016 qualifying match between Croatia and Italy had been moved to Split. Some fans proclaimed that Mamic and the federation finally realized that Maksimir was a piece of junk, while others said that it was just a move to quell supporters in Split who were tired of how the federation was being run. What we should have … [Read more...] about Croatia vs Italy set in an empty stadium
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“This is the Hardest Decision in my Life”
By 31 CommentsThere comes a time in every young man’s life to grow up and leave the comforts of home to make something of his life; to be pushed out of the nest and learn to fly. Some players in their early 20’s out grow the space they play in in Croatia. The HNL has done its duty; groomed them as professionals, paid them (sometimes), gave them a sense of competitiveness, but the … [Read more...] about “This is the Hardest Decision in my Life”
Outraged Observations: A positive direction for youth
By 61 CommentsWritten by Allen "Outraged" Strk It’s no secret that it was a tale of two performances that took place during the latest fixtures for Croatia. The lethargic play against Bulgaria was quickly washed away by the thrilling play against Azerbaijan. It’s odd to see a team drastically change in performance in a matter of a few days against a fairly equal opponent. … [Read more...] about Outraged Observations: A positive direction for youth
Croatia defeat Malta 2-0 to open Euro qualifying
By 224 CommentsGoals from Modrić and Kramarić got Croatia past 10-man Malta Tuesday night in Zagreb to open up Euro 2016 qualifying. But shouldn't we expect more from a team that fields players from the best teams in Europe? Let's look at the numbers. Croatia controlled ball possession for 70% of the match, had 23 shots on goal, but could only score twice against a … [Read more...] about Croatia defeat Malta 2-0 to open Euro qualifying
EURO 2012: A Final Look In
By 17 CommentsPhoto: Rob Uvanovic/CroatianSports.com Written by Rob Uvanović I’ve been waiting my whole life to watch the Croatian national team play live – and by traveling to Euro 2012 with my father and having the privilege to watch all three Croatia matches, we were both able to check something off our bucket list. As a Croatian-American that grew up in the US, the Vatreni have … [Read more...] about EURO 2012: A Final Look In
EURO 2012: After the Dust has Settled
By 29 CommentsPhoto: AP WHAT WE LEARNED: -We could very well be witnessing the greatest team in football history...and Spain can make that official, without a doubt, with a win at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil -Ronaldo can carry Portugal by himself (the non-penalty take will only make him stronger) -Teams that have the talent, but also mental blockage, that prevent … [Read more...] about EURO 2012: After the Dust has Settled
What’s in a Game?
By 147 CommentsOn Monday, Croatia will take on reigning Euro title holders and current World Cup Champions, Spain, with a Euro 2012 quarterfinal berth on the line. Croatia control their own fate as a win or 2-2 (or higher) draw against Spain will see the Vatreni into the knockout stages no matter what Italy does against Ireland. Both matches kickoff simultaneously at 2:45PM (ET). Croatia also … [Read more...] about What’s in a Game?
FAN ZONE: Poznan, Poland
By 48 CommentsPhoto: Kacper Pempel/Reuters CroatianSports.com's own Rob Uvanović is currently in Poland following the Croatian national team throughout their Euro 2012 group stage matches. Here's a look before the Croatia/Italy match on Thursday. Rob will be in Gdansk, Poland for the Group C finale between Croatia and Spain. What questions would you like him to ask Croatians attending … [Read more...] about FAN ZONE: Poznan, Poland
Croatian Comeback Kids Force 1-1 Draw with Italy
By 323 CommentsCroatia could have been the first team to book a spot in the Euro 2012 quarterfinals, but at the end of the day, they will have to be happy with a 1-1 draw against Italy. Italy dominated the first half and Croatia were lucky not to be down by multiple goals at halftime. Referee Howard Webb missed an obvious penalty call as Nikica Jelavić was pulled down in the box. Italy … [Read more...] about Croatian Comeback Kids Force 1-1 Draw with Italy