Croatia to seek victory over champions Spain

Croatia national football team will complete EURO 2016 group stage competition in Bordeaux, against defending champions, aware that a victory guarantees the top spot. A draw would secure Croatia runner-up position, while a loss can take Croatia to second round as one of the best third-placed teams.

"We will not do the math, we will seek our opportunities, try to limit Spain and secure the best possible outcome - regardless of the fact that high-quality Spain deserves full respect as one of the best teams in the world, created mostly from Barcelona and Real Madrid players. There will be a last-minute decision whether Modrić and Mandžukić can play, but we also have Rakitić at his best, we have Srna's charisma, and the entire squad that overcame all obstacles and represents Croatia in a proper manner. We will burn with positive energy until the last day in France", said Croatia head coach Ante Čačić.

Ivan Perišić was once again among Croatia top performers in both Turkey and Czech Republic encounters.

"Spain in strong, they play together for a long time, and is among the favourites to win the title, but Croatia prefers to play the best teams. They will surely not defend, and we want to win, to finish the top of the group. We must not lose focus as it happened in the closing minutes in Saint-Etienne, but keep the pace throughout the 90 minutes, have possession, be active, let Spaniards try to take the ball from us. If we fail to try, we have already lost. The atmosphere is great, all players eagerly await the kick-off", he said.

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