A motivated opponent
Dalić and Rakitić aware of Hungary threats
24.03.2019.
Photo by: Drago Sopta/HNS
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić and vice-captain Ivan Rakitić held a press conference regarding the EURO 2020 qualifier at Hungary.
Zlatko Dalić
"Croatia expects a tough match against a motivated opponent. However, we want to achieve a positive result as well. We are ready and we do not plan to modify our style of play, prepared to respond to everything that awaits us. Lovren, Brozović, Rebić and Jedvaj are back, Kramarić is fit. This is a 'must-win' match for Hungary, regarding their loss at Slovakia, where they had their chances. They will fight in front of home crowd, an we must stay patient and calm. Dzsudzsak and Szalai are among main Hungarian strengths, and it will require much more energy to defeat them. This is a tricky qualifying group, and we have to be at the maximum level"
Ivan Rakitić
"We will give our best, even though we are aware that home supporters will make it very, very tough. Croatia has to have the upper hand, keep possession and try to attack. A quality preparation is required, and our coaching staff is working out all the details. Regardless of the starting lineup, it is important to know tactical set-up at every moment. A compact defence provides better attacking opportunities. Hungary will undoubtedly be ready for us, but we also have a major objective - to reach UEFA EURO 2020"
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