Kovač: "Norway's superstar is their team"

Croatia national football team faces Norway in its fifth qualifier of the EURO 2016 campaign. Niko Kovač's men lead with ten points, the same as Italy, with the Norwegians have trailing by just one point.

Inter midfielder Mateo Kovačić is out due to injury, while other Croatia internationals will be ready for the start.

"I believe that Norway is more likely to defend then to attack. They will hold firm, and not change what they are good at. Norway made a lot of changes last year, and we have to match their running qualities and organization. They have no superstars, but the team is a superstar in Norway's case. No one is allowed to relax, every player participates at both sides of the pitch. We have to score as early as possible", says head coach Niko Kovač.

Norwegian teenager Martin Odegaard could also make his appearance at Maksimir Stadium.

"He is a big talent, just like our Alen Halilović who has also signed for a great club. Odegaard is a quality player with an excellent left foot and overall technique. If he stays healthy, he will surely be Norway's and Real's star", commented Kovač.

Croatia captain Darijo Srna, aware that last November's performance in Italy should be repeated, said:

"Our goal is to play as well as in Italy, only to be even more aggressive in the opponent's box. We are on our way to EURO 2016 in France, and we want to make another step towards it. Norway has the same target, while being a tough and a young team. However, we shall try and attack from the very beginning".

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