Dalić: "This wasn't easy to watch"

Zlatko Dalić

"I congratulate my players for winning and reaching the quarterfinals. This was a difficult path, from conceding in the first minute, through missing a late penalty in extra time, up to the misses in the penalty shootout. However, we remained strong, tough, calm, and finally won the game. This was our quality today, and we have deserved to have a bit of luck. Our hard work paid off. Furthermore, I congratulate Denmark for a quality performance and fair-play, they have even extended their unbeaten streak. Their style doesn't suit us, they have been a tough opponent, and we did a phenomenal job to beat such a disciplined, organized team. They deserve all the praise"

"A tough encounter awaits us against the hosts. We must not relax. To us, every upcoming match is a final, and Russia proved their worth by beating Spain. Therefore, we have to be careful, but still enjoy the match, a spectacle. A win in this tough match will give us extra strength. We weren't brilliant, but the outcome was the key - many teams with excellent individuals are already heading home. This wasn't easy to watch, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Now we want to make our country proud once again. Subašić was our hero tonight, he pulled us through when we needed him the most. Modrić was very brave to take two penalties, he took responsibility as a true captain"

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