Starting their journey towards Russia, Croatia and Turkey drew 1:1 behind closed doors in Zagreb. Rakitić secured the lead for Croatia scoring from the penalty spot, only to be quickly answered by Calhanoglu free kick in the dying seconds of the first half.

"I have to congratulate my players who have performed well without our fans' support. Of course, Turkey will go home a happier team, winning a point, while we have lost two despite many scoring opportunities. Football is sometimes cruel as we have dominated, hit the woodwork three times, and conceded from a doubtful free kick. That equalizer made us a bit nervous. This group is tough and there will be no easy points. This draw is not alarming, considering the fact it is only the beginning of the club season and our players will be more efficient in the upcoming matches", said Croatia head coach Ante Čačić.

"I have expected a tough Turkey team, well organized and holding its positions. Whenever they had the chance, they have tried to score, and they also have to be congratulated, both the players and the head coach who decided to trust some new names. However, we had more to say on the field, more opportunities to score another goal", he added.