Dalić and Modrić look forward to Brazil test

Zlatko Dalić

"We meet one of the favourites for the World Cup title and we have to stand firm, testing our weaknesses and strengths. This is an excellent test for our Argentina encounter, when we'll need both to attack and defend. This may be the biggest match of my coaching career, but I am an optimist, I truly believe in my squad, and I wanted this match to prove our quality to myself, to players, and to the fans. We have all we need to perform well at the World Cup". 

"Against Brazil, we'll try some things regarding Argentina and Messi, trying to keep a clean sheet, and we'll probably always get a chance to score. Croatia will use all six substitutions, especially in midfield, and our Champions League finalists will get some rest. It will be an excellent test, whether we win or lose. Stability is crucial, we need to focus our energy on Nigeria opener. Brazil and Senegal friendlies are here to answer some question, but I am extremely satisfied with our work, there were literally no problems during practice sessions. This gives me hope". 

Luka Modrić

"It is beautiful to be at this iconic stadium of Anfield and I look forward to this match. I hope that Croatia is going to perform well in front of many supporters, and that everyone can enjoy the match. Brazil is among the favourites to win the World Cup, this amazing team has unusually strong midfield. Neymar is one of the best players in the world, his qualities are well-known and he is the key player for Brazil. In 2014, Croatia confirmed that it can counter Brazil, but unfortunately we lost. Brazil is better than four years ago, but so are we, and I expect a tough match. This test will be very useful to Croatia, regardless of the result".

"I'm getting used to Zlatko Dalić's philosophy of football and his ideas, I believe everything is working just fine in Croatia squad, and I hope things will develop in the same direction. My expectations of the World Cup are great, as always, and our main objective remains to reach the second round. Croatia has enough quality".

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