The Croatian U-21 national team won the tournament in Doha

"Winning this tournament is a great achievement for us and a big reward for the effort the boys have put in. Although we had some tough moments, we showed character and team strength. What makes me particularly happy is that this was a new team, and we managed to win the tournament on our first joint appearance. This gives us extra motivation to continue working and preparing for future challenges", said coach Ivica Olić.

Foto: Arhiva HNS

Thailand took the lead with a penalty in the 56th minute, before Lovro Zvonarek equalized in the 71st minute. The turnaround to 2-1 was created by Luka Vušković in the 75th minute, and the final score of 3-1 was set by Mate Antunović from a penalty.

"We had three matches, and the plan was, given that there were a lot of new players, to try not only in training but also in the games to give a chance to players we don't know well enough", said Olić.

"I wasn’t satisfied with the players’ reactions. I can say that I would have substituted 10 players if I could have at halftime. I wasn’t at all happy, so the reaction of the five who came on was excellent, and then we established dominance, created chances, and it was no longer a question of whether we would score one, two, or three goals. I’m glad that at the end of this gathering, which was a wonderfully organized tournament with all the conditions we had here, we didn’t just play three matches, but also had four training sessions on top-quality pitches and got to know the team. I’m looking forward to June and the new matches", said Olić.

Foto: Arhiva HNS

The scorer of the first goal, Lovro Zvonarek, emphasized that there were some difficulties at the start of the match but highlighted the importance of team cohesion.

"There were a few difficulties at the start of the game and in the first half. That's why we need the whole team and the entire bench, so that we can come in fresh and turn the match in our favor", said Zvonarek.

"I'm glad I could help the team, and also to get back on track. I'm happy we won, I think we all played our roles from the first to the last player, and that's the most important thing", concluded Zvonarek.

Croatia played with the following lineup: Sajko, Barzić, Rukavina (Topić 64'), Prekodravac, Bukvić (Hrgović 46'), Dizdarević (Vrbančić 46'), Tunjić (Šotiček 46'), Antunović.

Foto: Arhiva HNS

Foto: Arhiva HNS

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