Croatia prepares for Russia, Čačić: "A real challenge"

With a place in France next summer safely in their pockets, Croatia internationals will face Russia on 17 November in Rostov on Don.

"Every gathering has its purpose and goals, with the match against a quality team like Russia being a real challenge. We want to see if some players who have played less in qualifying campaign can respond to our needs, while the outcome is always important", says Croatia head coach Ante Čačić.

Croatia will be without Luka Modrić, Ivan Rakitić and Mateo Kovačić.

"This is also the beginning of the preparations for the EURO 2016. We will test our midfield with Badelj, Brozović and Močinić, as well as the attack with Kalinić and Mandžukić. We have to see how to utilize our players in combinations for France", Čačić added.

 

Vatreni su se okupili za prijateljski susret s Rusijom koji je na rasporedu 17. studenog u Rostovu na Donu. #hrvatska #croatia #rusija #russia #vatreni #okupljanje #BudiPonosan #BeProud

A photo posted by Hrvatski nogometni savez (@hns_cff) on Nov 10, 2015 at 6:51am PST

Sassuolo defender Šime Vrsaljko also believes that Croatia will do some quality work during the next few days.

"The atmosphere is excellent, and we made it so by securing the EURO 2016 berth. We will enjoy training sessions and meetings before the Russia friendly, and we will go there to win, to continue with good results. Whoever gets an opportunity to play, has a chance to prove himself. Of course, my desire is to present myself in the best possible way as well".

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