According to Xinhua News Agency, on December 16, Croatia head coach Dalic said at a press conference before the match for the third place in the Qatar World Cup that his opponent Morocco is very similar to Croatia 4 years ago, and hopes that the team's core, 37-year-old Modric will continue to compete in the international arena in the future.
Dalic said Morocco was the biggest surprise in this World Cup, and they looked more like Croatia 4 years ago. Before the game, no one thought they could go so far, and they were completely worthy of their current position.
"Morocco has shown high-quality competitive standards and a spirit of unity. They have received support from many fans and each game has reached a level. Compared with the first match in the group stage, the Moroccan team is a more threatening opponent. They have increased their self-confidence and the potential of the whole team is stimulated." Dalic said.
Croatia and Morocco once met in the group stage, and the two sides drew 0-0. Dalich said that the third place battle on the 17th will be a great showdown.
Dalic hopes Modric continues to fight for Croatia.
"We are full of respect for Morocco and congratulate them on their current results. They have the same strong willpower as us. The next game will be the last battle for both sides and an important battle for medals. I think they should all play the main players, and this will be a very difficult game." Dalich said.
At present, players such as Gvadior, Brozovic, , and Yulanovic in the Croatian team have hidden dangers of injury. Dalic admits that after a month of intense games, the players are exhausted and the starter will change in the next game.
"This is the team's seventh game in a month. I ask the players to report their injuries and physical condition to the team. Everyone wants to be part of the game, but we have to be very cautious. If the players are not 100% healthy, they need to be replaced in the game," Dalich said.
Speaking of Modric, many media speculated that this game may be the last dance of " Magic Flute " in the World Cup. Dalic hopes that Modric can continue to compete in the international arena. "I really look forward to him continuing to fight side by side with us, and I also believe he will do this. Of course, it is ultimately his decision based on his personal circumstances."
Editor Wang Chunqiu