Croatian Football Federation is pleased to announce that a deal has been agreed with the Woodland Rhapsody Resort, in order to become the basecamp for Croatian internationals, coaching staff and HNS delegation during the FIFA World Cup.

The Woodland Rhapsody Resort is located at Illychevo near Zelenogorsk, 60 kilometres from St. Petersburg. The four-star resort offers peaceful surroundings, between a forest and a lake - presenting an idyllic natural environment for the national team. 

The national team is to hold practice sessions at the completely new and very attractive, 500-capacity small stadium at Roshchino, only a 15 minute drive from the hotel. The training centre is being built for the FIFA World Cup, the pitch is already in place, while the hosts are putting in a final touch on the indoor facilities.

HNS executive director Damir Vrbanović and Croatia team manager Iva Olivari have visited the Woodland Rhapsody and expressed their satisfaction with the facilities, as well as the hospitality.

"We can be extremely satisfied with our selection. Despite securing our place at the World Cup in the play-offs, we managed to agree one of the best camps in Russia. Some of the best teams wanted this hotel, but we were quick and resourceful following FIFA procedures. This hotel offers peaceful surroundings and all the necessary conditions for our stay. Another positive thing is that the national team will be the only guest, and the excellent training centre is a further important factor. The team will enjoy excellent conditions", said Vrbanović.

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić was also involved in the selection procedure, and was happy with the outcome:

"I have full confidence in Damir Vrbanović and Iva Olivari, who are experienced in seeking basecamps. They have visited Russian camps and shared their impressions with me. I believe we will have excellent working conditions during the World Cup. Moreover, I am happy that the high-level training centre is almost completed, with FIFA and HNS making sure that the pitch will be in a perfect condition".