PHILADELPHIA — Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic declared his side had rediscovered the qualities that made them one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams after a 2-1 victory over Ghana secured a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Saturday.
The 2018 runners-up and 2022 semifinalists recovered from an opening 4-2 defeat to England to finish second in Group L, following a narrow victory over Panama before sealing qualification with another hard-fought win against Ghana.
Dalic praised his players for delivering under pressure and said the performance reflected the discipline and tactical organization that have defined Croatia during his tenure.
“I would like to congratulate the players for going to the knockout stage. It was a difficult match, but I think Croatia played an excellent match in a tactical sense and positioned itself well,” Dalic told reporters.
“I think we’re back to where we were, like nine years ago. But that’s again a small step to achieve the first objective, to go to the knockout stage.”
The veteran coach also responded to criticism directed at his team after their inconsistent start to the tournament, saying doubts over Croatia’s quality had been unfair considering the national team’s sustained success on the world stage.
Dalic said the skepticism surrounding his squad after the opening matches had disappointed him, describing some of the public reaction as excessive.
“This national team deserves better because we had so many fans rooting for Croatia,” he said.
“Even when losing or winning, they should be loved because of everything they have done for the people and for the country. This needs to be appreciated and not go against it the moment they lose.”
Captain Luka Modric once again played a decisive role despite turning 40 earlier this year. The midfielder became the oldest player to register a World Cup assist since detailed records began in 1966 when his curling corner found Nikola Vlasic, whose powerful header produced the winning goal.
Modric also contributed defensively throughout the match, repeatedly tracking back to break up Ghana attacks while maintaining his influence in midfield.
“Luka was truly fantastic … That’s his character and his energy,” Dalic said.
“He’s aware that this is the last World Cup and he’s trying to do his best … I hope that he will be healthy and that he stays with the Croatians for as long as possible.”
Dalic also praised match-winner Vlasic, who justified his inclusion after being promoted into the starting lineup against Ghana.
The Italy-based attacker had not featured in Croatia’s victory over Panama but repaid his coach’s faith by striking the post in the first half before heading home the decisive goal after the interval.
The coach revealed he had personally encouraged Vlasic before kickoff, believing the midfielder was ready to make an impact.
“This is how he has played throughout the season,” Dalic said.
“He showed this tonight as well.
“Before the match I told him: ‘It’s your match.’ And it turned out to be so.”
Croatia now advance to the knockout stage seeking to continue their remarkable record at major tournaments, with Dalic believing the team’s renewed confidence and resilience have arrived at the ideal moment as the competition enters its decisive phase.
