Luka Modric is preparing for his final appearance in a World Cup with Croatia and does not hide his enthusiasm: at 40 years old, the Croatian maestro acknowledges that every minute on the pitch now has a special flavor. On the eve of the clash against powerful England, scheduled for this Wednesday in Texas, Modric revealed he feels “rejuvenated” to be part of the select group of players competing on the biggest stage in world football for the fifth time.
The match between Croatia and England promises to be one of the most enticing duels of the group stage in North America, pitting two teams with significant recent histories against each other. Modric, now playing for AC Milan after more than a decade commanding the midfield at Real Madrid, is set to reach the impressive milestone of 200 international caps, a feat achieved by few. Croatia, remember, eliminated England in the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Moscow and is now set to face the English again in a rematch filled with symbolism and rivalry.
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This will be Luka Modric’s last “big dance,” side by side with names like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, three legends marking the end of an era in world football. The significance of this moment transcends the simple competition of a tournament: it is the closing of a golden cycle, with the Croatian wanting to exit the scene in grand style. Although Croatia has progressed through the qualifiers without major hiccups, they arrive at the World Cup without the usual media favoritism – but, as has been demonstrated many times before, underestimating this team can be a fatal mistake for any opponent.
In the press conference preceding the match, Modric was clear about his state of mind: “Every game, every tournament is special at 40 years old with the national team,” emphasized the midfielder, stressing the importance of making the most of this last opportunity. “My goal in this tournament is to enjoy, give my best, but enjoy,” he added, highlighting: “I want to make the most of every game, every training session with these guys.” This relaxed yet ambitious outlook reflects the spirit of a player who has already won everything but continues to be fueled by his passion for the game.
The Croatian national team features a mix of experience and youth. Alongside Modric, another veteran stands out, Ivan Perisic, 37, who still possesses the ability to make a difference. But there is also fresh blood, with the inclusion of young defender Luka Vuskovic, just 19 years old, who is expected to be a key player against England. Modric does not hide his excitement about working with this new generation: “There are many young players, so I feel rejuvenated with them,” he confessed, expressing his motivation to lead both on and off the pitch.
The coach Zlatko Dalic, who has long been at the helm of Croatia, does not hide his respect for the opponent, openly praising the English attacking prowess. “The opponent has a lot of quality,” Dalic began, adding: “We have analyzed England, they know us too… they are very dangerous. They have the best forwards in the world. They have Kane – Kane can do a lot, he can do so much,” he warned, referring to English captain Harry Kane. Dalic also issued a warning regarding the English strategy on set pieces, emphasizing: “We are well prepared for that.”
The clash with England will be a true test for a mature Croatia, but one hungry for another achievement. If the Croatians can replicate their success from 2018, they could embark on another historic campaign, defying the skepticism of those who insist on focusing solely on the team’s age. On the other hand, a defeat could mark the end of an era and necessitate a deep renewal.
After this match, Croatia will face a challenging group stage, where every point will be precious to ensure progression to the knockout stage. For Modric, each step in this World Cup represents a grand farewell to international football, but also the chance to inspire a new generation of Croatian talents. The world will be watching Texas, waiting for another stellar performance from one of the greatest midfielders in the history of European football.
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