National Teams > Men > A

Modrić believes in victory

Kovač: "Croatia has
a plan and hopes to
execute it"

23.06.2014.
Kovač: "Croatia has a plan and hopes to execute it"
photo by: Drago Sopta/HNS
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • RSS

Head coach Niko Kovač and Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modrić held a press conference a day before the Mexico clash in Recife.

Niko Kovač expressed his belief in a positive outcome for Croatia in the decider to be played on Monday.

"Considering their goals, the pressure is on Mexico. Mexico improved in the last period, and played very well in the first two World Cup matches. However, we have a plan and hope to execute it once more. Croatia respects Mexico, yet Croatia is getting better and better", said Croatia head coach.

"I have very intelligent players, they understand our philosophy. I have the right to be positive, should we enjoy our football, we have the chance of reaching the next round. If we did not believe, we would not need to be here at all", continued Kovač.

"Our preparations were at the best possible level, and this Croatian generation has a lot to offer. I hope this is just the beginning of their story", he said.

Luka Modrić, Champions League winner with Real Madrid, recalls very good Croatian performances at a major tournament two years ago.

"Mexico will certainly have more support, but the match is played on the pitch, and not in the stands. Our motivation is high, we want to reach the World Cup second round after nearly missing on that achievement two years ago at the EURO 2012. This team has the quality to do so", he said.

Croatian team is aware of its abilities.

"Mexico is a good team, yet I believe that Croatia is better, both individually and regarding teamwork. Our only option is to win, which is good. I am sure that we will find a way past their goalkeeper. It does not matter who will score, what matters is to achieve our goal. Our desire has quality foundations, we have reasons to believe in victory", concluded Luka Modrić.

More News

  • Major Croatia comeback to complete World Cup qualifying

    17.11.2025.

    Major Croatia comeback to complete World Cup qualifying

    Zlatko Dalić's men have completed 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying with a victory, despite Montenegro having a two-goal advantage. MONTENEGRO - CROATIA 2:3 (2:1)2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying, Group...

  • Croatia turns the table to secure World Cup berth!

    14.11.2025.

    Croatia turns the table to secure World Cup berth!

    Croatia national football team became a 2026 FIFA World Cup participant with a 3:1 comeback victory over Faroe Islands in Rijeka. CROATIA - FAROE ISLANDS 3:1 (1:1)2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying...

  • Croatia ranked 11th in the latest FIFA rankings

    03.04.2025.

    Croatia ranked 11th in the latest FIFA rankings

    The Croatian national football team has climbed two places in the latest FIFA rankings, published on Thursday, and is now ranked 11th in the world. Argentina remains at the top of the rankings...

  • Croatia to host Czech Republic in Osijek

    24.03.2025.

    Croatia to host Czech Republic in Osijek

    The Executive Committee of the Croatian Football Federation has decided that Croatia's June match against the Czech Republic will be played at Osijek's Opus Arena. Following their Nations League...