To battle: Croatia believes in opening success

Croatia head coach Ante Čačić and national team captain Darijo Srna spoke to media representatives on the eve of the Parc des Princes encounter against Turkey, the first Group D match at UEFA EURO 2016.

"I am proud and happy to be the head coach, and my players are proud and happy to represent their country at this festival of football. We will do our best to bring joy to our people, and since we all have overcome many obstacles in lives and careers, the players give me the belief in success", emphasized Čačić.

Head coach Čačić has already selected his starting XI, but did not reveal it to the press, and did not hide the fact that Croatia is among the ambitious teams of the tournament.

"We feel great, since this Croatia team is made of quality, experienced players in great form, and also includes promising youngsters. Croatia must not lose hope against any opponent, our obligation is to try and win every single match. Turkey is a compact team with great coach, but we have learned about their weaknesses and strengths. The first match is always the most important, while Croatia players have a winning mentality. If we manage to play collectively, not individually, the result should favour us", he concluded.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Croatia captain Darijo Srna also thinks positively.

"Turkey is a strong opponent, a team with character, and there are no favourites. However, I believe in this team, that it will make a first step towards a good result. We have played together for a long time and I think we can respond to any other team. We need to fight together on the field, we need to stay focused. The fans are aware of the importance of their support, and now we have to try and make Croatian people happy and proud, to unite them. When we hear the anthem, no one is tired. To battle".

The Turkey - Croatia match kicks off at 15:00 CET, with Jonas Eriksson as the referee. Spain and Czech Republic clash on Monday.

Utakmica Hrvatske i Turske počinje u nedjelju u 15:00 sati.

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