“I have huge respect for them. They showed in Osijek that they can play well, so we have to be wide awake, do a good job and give everything,” said the 55-year-old on Saturday at the final press conference in Vienna.
It is important to draw the right lessons from the 0: 3 against the ÖFB team, demanded Dalic. “We want to make up some things. In the first game we conceded goals from counterattacks and half-counters. Now we have to be more compact and aggressive and also play possession.”
Losing to Austria in June, the Croatians followed that up with two wins against Denmark and a win and draw against France. Therefore, the vice world champion is in first place in the group before the last round and would be in the Final Four for the Nations League title with three points in the Prater. “It’s a huge opportunity for us. It’s in our own hands and we don’t want to rely on France,” said Dalic, referring to Denmark’s home game against the French, who are a point behind.
According to the coach, he is pursuing several goals against the ÖFB team. “We want to get a good result but also try some new players,” said Dalic. Before the World Cup in Qatar, his team only has one friendly against Saudi Arabia.
Ahead of the finals, Croatian fans are optimistic about recent Nations League successes – not necessarily to Dalic’s delight. “We want to curb the euphoria and stay down to earth. Euphoria doesn’t do us any good.”
The game is of particular importance to Linz-born Chelsea professional Mateo Kovacic. “I was born and raised here, lived here until I was 13, my family is here,” said the midfielder, who wants revenge for the bankruptcy in Osijek. “We didn’t expect this defeat, but after that we showed character and played very well,” emphasized Kovacic.
Source: Nachrichten
