Croatia’s captain Luka Modric has expressed his determination to continue playing despite a heartbreaking draw against Italy that likely ends his team’s hopes in the European Championship. The match concluded with a last-minute equalizer from Italy, leaving Croatia in a precarious position in Group B.
Key Takeaways
- Luka Modric vows to keep playing despite Croatia’s likely elimination from the European Championship.
- The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Italy scoring a last-gasp equalizer.
- Modric, at 38, reflects on his long career and the emotional toll of the game.
Match Overview
In a dramatic encounter, Croatia faced Italy in their final Group B match, needing a win to secure a chance at advancing in the tournament. Modric, who had a penalty saved earlier in the match, managed to score, putting Croatia ahead. However, the joy was short-lived as Italy’s Mattia Zaccagni equalized in stoppage time, leaving Croatia with only two points from three matches.
Modric’s Reflections
After the match, Modric shared his thoughts on the game and his future:
- On Continuing to Play: "I’d like to keep playing forever, but there probably will come a time when I must hang up my boots. I’ll keep playing on, but I don’t know for how much longer."
- On the Match’s Emotional Impact: "That was very stressful. We kept battling right until the end but, unfortunately, football was merciless with us tonight. It was cruel above all today, but also in our last match when we also conceded a late goal."
- On Team Spirit: "Of course we need to bounce back. But that’s the way it is. Perhaps it’s unfair because we all really fought for Croatia right from the first whistle until the last."
Coach’s Perspective
Croatia’s coach, Zlatko Dalic, also weighed in on the match, expressing frustration over the amount of stoppage time added, which he felt contributed to the late goal conceded:
- On Stoppage Time: "There were not many breaks in play or fouls. But you cannot concede a goal like that in the 98th minute."
- On Accepting Defeat: "Defeat is part and parcel of football. That’s the way it is."
Looking Ahead
As Croatia faces the reality of likely elimination, Modric’s commitment to the game remains strong. His leadership and experience will be crucial as the team reflects on their performance and prepares for future challenges. Despite the disappointment, Modric’s legacy as one of football’s greats continues to inspire both fans and teammates alike.
In conclusion, while the match against Italy was a bitter pill to swallow, Luka Modric’s resolve to keep playing embodies the spirit of resilience that defines not only his career but also the heart of Croatian football.
