Croatia’s national team coach, Zlatko Dalic has spoken concerning the the World Cup semi-final match between Croatia and England after shattering their hopes of winning the 2018 World Cup.
Speaking on the outcome of the game, Dalic said;
“Because we were the better team in all segments of the game.
“We did not underestimate them. We respected them because we analysed them.
“We knew what they were doing and where.
“We played a high press on their backline. We closed down (John) Stones and (Jordan) Henderson. We nullified them.
“We let the centre-halves play. (Luka) Modric and (Ivan) Rakitic pressed their backline and we had the ball possession.
“During half-time, I told the players ‘calmly pass the ball, do not lose your heads’.
“We showed that we were the better team in all segments of the game.
“I think this was our best game. We played today better than against Argentina.
“We were motivated and what I told these players before the game was ‘there’s no pressure, no nerves, don’t lose your head – you’ve reached the semi-final, be proud and enjoy your football’.
“And this is exactly what they did – they enjoyed their football.”
“There is no weakness in a team which is in the final,”
“They are a top-drawer team with fantastic players.
“But we are going to discuss France tomorrow. We’re taking it step by step.
“We’ve entered the final today. We’re going to celebrate, to rest and then we will prepare for France.
“We’re facing another daunting task but it’s going to be a fantastic match. We are ready for it. I am sure everybody will enjoy watching that match. I have huge respect for France.”
England drew the first blood at first but Ivan Perisic scored an equalizer followed by the extra time goal by Mario Mandzukic.
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