Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic hit out at the team’s doubters, saying it was back to the old Croatia after they secured a 2-1 win over Ghana to reach the last 32 of the World Cup on Saturday.
The 2018 runners-up and 2022 semi-finalist lost their opening match 4-2 to England and recorded an unconvincing 1-0 win over Panama before sealing second place in Group L with a victory over the Africans.
«I would like to congratulate the players for reaching the knockout stages. It was a difficult match, but I think Croatia played an excellent match tactically and positioned themselves well,» Dalic told reporters.
«I think we are back to the level where we were, just like nine years ago. But that is another small step to achieve the first goal, which is to get to the knockout stages.»
The long-serving boss said there was a lot of “suspicion” about the quality of his team after the first games, describing some of the commentary as “pathetic”.
“This national team deserves better because we had so many fans rooting for Croatia,” he added.
“Even if they lose or win, they should be loved for all they have done for the people and for the country. This should be appreciated and not taken against them at the moment they lose.”
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Luka Modric became the oldest player at a World Cup to provide an assist in records dating back to 1966 after curling into the corner to set up Nikola Vlasic’s winning header.
During his last World Cup, the 40-year-old was also tenacious in defence, blocking shots on goal for Ghana and harassing the attackers throughout.
“Luka was really fantastic… That’s his character and his energy,” said Dalic.
«He is aware that this is the last World Cup and he is trying to do his best… I hope he will be healthy and stay with the Croats as long as possible.»
Dalic also credited himself with sparking Italy-based striker Vlasic, who was promoted to the starting XI against Ghana after not playing against Panama.
Vlasic hit the post from distance in the first half before heading in a powerful header.
“This is how he played all season,” Dalic said.
“He showed that tonight too.
“Before the match I told him: ‘It’s your match.’ And that turned out to be the case.”
Published on June 28, 2026
