Croatia national football team completed its journey to China Cup and arrived to Nanning, and awaits the Wednesday clash with Chile. Hosts China and Iceland open the tournament with the first semifinal on Tuesday.
"We are happy that Croatia was invited to the inaugural edition of the China Cup, even though this is not a FIFA official date and it is difficult to call up all the best players. However, we have done everything possible to arrive with a team that will present Croatian football quality", says Croatia head coach Ante Čačić.
"The national team consists mostly of Croatian First Division players. Therefore, we are unknown to Chile as Chile is to us, but our players guarantee a good match, in order to fulfill the expectations of all football fans in China", he added.
foto: China Football Association
What are Croatia's objectives in the tournament?
"All teams have come here to do their best, try to win both matches and the trophy. We are here with the same ambition, respecting all opponents, regardless of the fact that Chile is a slight favourite - they have met earlier and held more training sessions. Still, Croatia wants to presents its style, seek a victory, and a place in the China Cup final", concluded Čačić.
Croatia international Josip Pivarić of Dinamo Zagreb has shared his thoughts on a long journey prior to the Chile encounter:
"It was a long trip, with seven hours time difference and some bad weather conditions in Europe, but we will try to get in the best possible shape in these two days. I hope we can recover from the journey and open the match with Chile in a proper manner".
