In the 2018 FIFA World Cup play-offs return leg, Croatia held to a 0:0 in Greece, winning 4:1 on aggregate. Croatia internationals were understandably happy.
"Our goal was to reach the World Cup, and of course we are happy. We have played as we agreed before the match, expecting an aggressive opponent who had to win. We did well to put our gameplan into effect. I was not nervous upon my recovery, I believe in my teammates. In Zagreb, we confirmed the quality of our players", stated Mario Mandžukić following the final whistle.
"I have to congratulate my teammates, this was a really tough match. It was not a beauty, our supporters could have hardly enjoy that performance, but the key was not to let Greece create goalscoring opportunities. Our objective was achieved, we have reached the World Cup, and this victory is dedicated to everybody who believed in us", said Domagoj Vida.
"Croatia has presented a great unity and mental strength in crucial moments. Now we have to keep on working, in order to achieve something at the World Cup. We would like the enjoy the atmosphere that supported us against Greece in Zagreb, to have all the people backing the national team", added goalie Danijel Subašić.
"We have been talking, singing, and celebrating in the locker room, and now we have to move on. We have done what was necessary to secure World Cup berth, even though it was not very nice to watch. Our head coach is doing a phenomenal job, and deserves many compliments", concluded Šime Vrsaljko.
