(Photo credit: Bruno Correia/Public Domain/CC)
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić has outlined key challenges facing the national team ahead of two international friendlies against Colombia and Brazil in the United States next week.
Speaking at a press conference in Zagreb today, Dalić described the upcoming matches as significant tests for the Croatian side as preparations intensify for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Squad concerns and tactical options
Dalić admitted Croatia faces some squad challenges, particularly at left-back.
“We have two difficult matches ahead of us, two big tests,” he said. “We have some minor problems with the squad, especially at the left-back position. I hope Joško Gvardiol will be fine so we can solve that issue.”
The coach also revealed he is considering tactical adjustments, including a potential return to a three-man defensive system.
“I am thinking about different options so we do not exhaust Josip Stanišić by playing him at left-back in both matches. One possibility is returning to a system with three defenders and using more offensive players on the flanks.”
Young defender Luka Vušković, who has impressed at Hamburger SV, is expected to be given an opportunity.
“He plays in a back-three system at his club, but I see him as a right centre-back in a four-man defence,” Dalić explained. “With the World Cup approaching, it is important to see him in full action.”
Livaković remains Croatia’s first-choice goalkeeper
Dalić also addressed the situation surrounding goalkeeper Dominik Livaković, who recently returned to Dinamo Zagreb.
“He never lost his status as Croatia’s number one goalkeeper. It is important that he is back playing regularly at Dinamo and that makes me happy.”
Strong interest from Croatian fans
Croatian supporters are expected to travel in large numbers to the World Cup despite the distance.
According to Croatian Football Federation spokesman Tomislav Pacak, demand for tickets has already been exceptionally high.
“More than 350,000 ticket requests have been submitted. Considering the resourcefulness of our fans, we expect strong support, particularly in Toronto.”
The interest for Croatia’s matches have not been this big since the 2026 World Cup in Germany. The Croatian contingent is sold out.
Dalić commented on speculation about potential additions to the national team’s coaching staff ahead of the tournament.
Dalić dismissed reports suggesting former international Domagoj Vida had rejected an offer to join the team’s staff.
“To reject the national team, someone must first receive an offer. That was not the case. Vida is a legend of our football and our national team, and such headlines are unfair.”
Dalić added that he would like to see members of Croatia’s historic 2018 FIFA World Cup squad remain involved with the national setup or the federation in the future.
Two demanding opponents
Dalić expects both friendlies to provide valuable insight into Croatia’s form.
“Colombia have many quick players and they are very dangerous in counter-attacks,” he said. “Brazil are the biggest favourites for the World Cup and that match will be a real test for us.”
He stressed that facing strong opposition is the best way to prepare.
“It is risky, but Croatia deserves to play against the best. We will get much better answers than if we played weaker opponents.”
Striker competition intensifies
Dalić also addressed competition for attacking positions.
Players such as Ante Budimir, Andrej Kramarić, Igor Matanović, Petar Musa, and Dion Drena Beljo remain in contention.
“Kramarić is carrying us and has an excellent status at his club. Musa recently scored a hat-trick in MLS, while Matanović is playing regularly in the Bundesliga. Everyone has an opportunity to prove themselves.”
Dalić also expressed optimism about Croatia’s midfield options.
Young talents such as Martin Baturina, Luka Sučić, and Petar Sučić are emerging alongside experienced players like Mateo Kovačić and Luka Modrić.
Kovačić is currently staying with Manchester City to focus on recovery and training.
“He is an important player for us. We agreed he should stay at City and prepare properly. I am confident he will soon return to the team.”
Monitoring Gvardiol’s recovery
Croatia’s medical staff will also closely monitor the recovery of Joško Gvardiol.
Dalić confirmed that the national team staff will travel to Manchester to discuss the defender’s condition with Pep Guardiola.
“Joško is extremely important for us. The expectation is that he will start training with the team again towards the end of April. Even if he does not play regularly before the World Cup, we will have two friendlies to assess his condition.”
With crucial preparations underway, the upcoming matches against Colombia and Brazil are expected to provide Croatia with valuable insight into their readiness for football’s biggest stage.