As the host team, Brazil won the World Cup opening match despite falling behind to Croatia after 11 minutes. However, Croatia head coach Niko Kovač could only praise his players.
"First of all, I would like to congratulate Brazil. I believe that my team has played an excellent match, and I am proud of this Croatian team. If we repeat this performance, we can reach second round. Brazil was also excellent, but Croatia deserved a draw, showing its true face", said Kovač.
"We have played tactically clever, without haste, searching for opportunities in counterattacks. We were dangerous, yet it is difficult to play against Brazil. Croatia did not come to defend, I have selected the team to show everyone we want to attack as well and play without a defensive midfielder. I have believed that Modrić and Rakitić can tip the balance to our side", he continued.
foto: Drago Sopta/HNS
Brazil's second goal, scored from the penalty spot, triggered different comments, with Kovač stating:
"I did not see that penalty, and if someone did, raise your hand. In this way, there will be a hundred penalties at the World Cup. That was not a penalty and it never will be, it was a ridiculous decision. Brazil and Croatia played an extraordinary match, and the referee was not at the highest level".
Croatian players feel that they might have achieved a better result.
"This is football, the rules apply to both teams. I want respect for both teams, and my lads have spent two years trying to get to the World Cup, having practice sessions and working hard, only to experience this. It is sad, imagine how they feel. Brazil needs no help, they have enough quality", concluded head coach Kovač.
