On 6 October, Croatia visits Kosovo at Albanian city of Shkoder, while three days later Ante Čačić's men will take on Finland in Tampere. However, Croatia will be without the injured Luka Modrić, Dejan Lovren, and Ivan Rakitić.
"We hope they will recover soon, and now we focus on the available players. They are all quality footballers and we seek victories, regardless of injuries. Croatia has to be true to its own style in every match, and I have complete confidence in my players. Injuries are not an alibi, Croatia must not depend on a single player, any player, and we still have enough quality to justify our role of favourites. With due respect to Kosovo and Finland, quality is on our side, and I hope we will show utter commitment and achieve the desired outcome", says Croatia head coach.
"Kosovo is playing a historic match, in front of their home crowd - even though the match will be played in Albania - and this will be an extremely tough challenge. I am convinced in a great atmosphere, and that we will overcome every obstacle, to leave for Finland in a positive mood. Kosovo played well in Finland, they could have even achieved victory, but in this moment, Croatia is a step ahead of its opponents. If we stay focused, I do not doubt that we will perform well and achieve a positive outcome. Kosovo fans will give the home team an advantage, but our players enjoy full crowds too", concluded Čačić.
