Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has described veteran midfielder Luka Modric as "my right hand on the pitch" ahead of his side's crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against Panama in Toronto. The 2018 runners-up and 2022 third-place finishers are looking to bounce back after a 4-2 defeat to England in their opening match, where Harry Kane scored twice.
Modric's milestone and leadership
Modric is on the verge of earning his 200th international cap for Croatia, a remarkable achievement that underscores his longevity and influence. Dalic, who has worked with Modric for over a decade, praised the former Real Madrid star's unwavering commitment. "He is my right hand on the pitch. Luka Modric sets an example to all on how we should do things," Dalic said, as quoted by FIFA. "Luka has won the Golden Ball and everything possible in football. His key feature is the fact that he never gives up. He is the leader on the pitch and outside the pitch."
Teammates praise Modric's humility
Defender Josip Stanisic also lauded Modric's impact, noting that he can only dream of reaching 100 caps, let alone 200. "But Luka is a role model to all of us, for how to play for Croatia and how to carry yourself. He is a star not just in Croatia but around the world and yet he still behaves like a completely normal person and never looks down on anyone. Maybe that is even his greatest quality," Stanisic added.
Dalic calls for improvement after England defeat
Reflecting on the opening loss, Dalic admitted the team made costly errors. "We have to be better and have to fix mistakes in defence. We gifted England a lot in the last match," he said. Looking ahead to Panama, Dalic emphasized the need for courage and determination. "Panama is a good side with some fast players, but we must be very courageous, very brave, very decisive and determined. We are the favourites, we have to act like it. And we expect results."
Pressure and expectations
Dalic acknowledged the high expectations following Croatia's recent successes. "We have set the bar high for ourselves with two medals in the last two tournaments. You cannot live off the glory of the old days. I know that we have high expectations from our fans. Every match is an opportunity to prove yourself," he concluded.
