Croatia U-19 reaches EURO: "This is players' victory"

Croatia U-19 won all three matches of the UEFA Elite Round, hosting Bulgaria, Scotland, and Belgium in Rijeka and Kostrena, without conceding a single goal.

Bulgaria was defeated with a piece of Brekalo's magic (1:0), while Brodić, Turčin, and once again Brekalo helped to break Scotland's resistance (3:0). Belgium, who was also on maximum points after the two rounds, was then beaten 4:0 in the Monday decider. Benković opened the scoring, Brodić doubled the lead, while Lovren and Knežević finished the job in the second half.

"The players must be congratulated for their responsible performance, for the tasks fulfilled. This is their victory, they proved to be a true family. Belgium is a good team, but we took over the control, and when we have the upper hand in possession, we can usually win matches. We were very much aware of the prize this match brings", said Croatia head coach Ferdo Milin.

Croatia youngsters Andrija Balić and Davor Lovren were overjoyed with success.

"After analyzing previous matches, we have resolved some issues and the results were obvious. The most important thing was securing EURO berth, and I am very happy, full of happyend emotions. Belgians have quality, but we dominated them", said Balić.

"In the first 15 minutes we had to adjust to a slippery pitch, but after the first goal we developed extra strength. Everything was great, and the head coach is satisfied. We did all that he asked of us", added Lovren.

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