Croatia’s midfielder Luka Modric.
The sensational victory over World Cup favourites Brazil in the quarter-finals has given huge confidence boost to Croatia, who are now eyeing to lift the prestigious trophy for the first time.
The Balkan nation made history by reaching the final of the World Cup four years ago in Russia, and captain Luka Modric believes the team is equipped to compete for the world title in Qatar.
Croatia defeated Brazil 4-2 on penalties after holding the Selecao to a 1-1 draw in full time – their first-ever victory against the five-time champions.
“The feeling is incredible. We are very happy to be in the semi-finals again,” Modric said on win over Brazil.
Croatia have lost only one of their last 12 World Cup matches that includes seven matches in Russia where they were beaten by France in the final.
“It is difficult to compare this [achievement] with 2018, when we made history. But now we want to repeat it. I hope we will take a step further”, the veteran midfielder told Marca in an interview.
Asked about his plan after the World Cup, the 37-year-old said he has not decided on his future with the national team.
“Let’s see... I don’t know,” said the Real Madrid midfielder.
“My focus right now is the World Cup. I am not looking to the future. Let’s see what happens after the semi-final,” he replied.
Modric, meanwhile, said he consoled his Real Madrid team-mate Rodrygo, whose penalty was stopped by Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
“I already tried to encourage him. I feel sorry for him, but I am satisfied with the victory of my country,” Modric said of 21-year-old Rodrygo.
Meanwhile, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic praised his midfielders after a hard-fought win over Brazil.
Modric, Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic played crucial role in the midfield during 120 minutes of play that saw teams even on ball possession, with the trio containing the likes of Neymar, Vinicius Junior and Raphinha.
Dalic said he was confident of a good show from his midfielders against the pre-tournament favourites.
“I said several times that Croatia has the best midfield in the world,” said Dalic.
“We can pass the ball, control the game and control the ball, we did that. Our midfielders were not hasty, that was the most important part. I believe the midfield is the best part of our team, they (kept) possession and blocked our opponents,” said the coach before showering especial praise for Modric.
“Again Luka [Modric] led for 120 mins with a great rhythm and took the penalty when he needed to,” said Dalic of Modric, who also scored from the spot during the shootout.
“It’s unbelievable how he plays. He is not tired, he didn’t fall behind, he played the whole 120 minutes.”
Josip Juranovic, who was also outstanding against Brazil, echoed his coach.
“We believe in ourselves -- I can say we have the best midfielders ever,” said Juranovic.
“Brozovic, Modric and Kovacic -- if they are in the game I think that we will control the game 90 percent and because of that I think that we beat (Brazil).”
Croatia will meet Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the semi-final at Lusail Stadium on Tuesday.
