Euro 2024: Croatia – The strength and potential of the “Swans” under Zlatko Dalic’s reign

With world-class stars and indomitable warrior spirit, Croatia promises to surprise in Group B of Euro 2024. Let’s explore the strength and potential of the checkered team under the guidance of “wizard” Zlatko Dalic.

When it comes to Croatian football, fans can’t forget the feat of reaching the 2018 World Cup final. Although they lost to France in the final match, the “Swans” won the hearts of fans with their determined and skillful play. Now, at Euro 2024, Croatia is determined to continue their fairy tale story.

The biggest strength of Croatia is their world-class midfield. Led by captain Luka Modric, who has just won the Champions League with Real Madrid in the 2023/24 season. At the age of 38, “Conductor” Modric still proves his class with excellent playmaking and match controlling abilities. Alongside him, Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City) and Marcelo Brozovic (Al-Nassr) form a formidable midfield trio with their technical skills, endurance, and solid defense.

Croatia’s defense also boasts bright stars. Young center-back Josko Gvardiol, who has just moved to Manchester City for a record fee of 90 million euros, promises to be a solid defender. Full-back pair Josip Juranovic (Union Berlin) and Borna Sosa (Ajax) also impress with their speed and sharp wing attacks.

However, the attack is Croatia’s weakness as they lack a world-class striker. Veteran striker Andrej Kramaric is in a slump, while Bruno Petkovic has not shown much on the international stage. Coach Zlatko Dalic is struggling to find solutions for the attack, hoping that Marko Pjaca (Rijeka) will shine and score regularly.

With rich experience and excellent coaching skills, coach Zlatko Dalic is striving to build an appropriate playing style for Croatia. He focuses on the combination of youth and experience, aiming to advance from Group B. Facing Albania, Spain, and Italy, Croatia needs to fully utilize their strength and unity to create surprises.

With a quality squad and peak performance mentality, Croatia can absolutely make a difference at Euro 2024. Vietnamese fans will surely follow each step of Modric and his teammates, hoping that the “Swans” will fly high and make history. Let’s look forward to Croatia’s emotional and dramatic performances at Europe’s most exciting tournament this summer!

Current Euro 2024 Croatia squad: players and clubs (As of: March 28, 2024)

Goalkeepers: Ivica Ivusic (Paphos FC), Dominik Kotarski (PAOK Saloniki), Nediljko Labrovic (HNK Rijeka), Dominik Livakovic (Fenerbahce Istanbul)

Defenders: Duje Caleta-Car (Olympique Lyon), Martin Erlic (Sassuolo Calcio), Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City), Josip Juranovic (1. FC Union Berlin), Marin Pongracic (US Lecce), Borna Sosa (Ajax Amsterdam), Josip Stanisic (Bayer Leverkusen), Domagoj Vida (AEK Athens)

Midfielders: Marcelo Brozovic (Al-Nassr), Luka Ivanusec (Feyenoord Rotterdam), Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City), Lovro Majer (VfL Wolfsburg), Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Marco Pasalic (HNK Rijeka), Mario Pasalic (Atalanta Bergamo), Nikola Vlasic (FC Turin)

Forwards: Andrej Kramaric (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim), Bruno Petkovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Marko Pjaca (HNK Rijeka)

Topics: Croatia, Zlatko Dalic, Luka Modric, Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, Marcelo Brozovic, Euro 2024, Group B