news-26092024-130053

Croatia Welcomes Back World Cup Hero Mislav Orsic

Croatia’s national team is gearing up for their upcoming Nations League clash against Scotland, and there are some notable changes in the squad lineup. World Cup hero Mislav Orsic has been recalled after a two-year absence, adding experience and firepower to the team. Orsic, who currently plays for Trabzonspor in Turkey, made headlines during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with his winning penalty in a quarter-finals shoot-out against Brazil and a crucial goal in the third and fourth place play-off against Morocco.

The return of Orsic is a significant boost for Croatia, especially as they look to bounce back from a disappointing start to their Nations League campaign. With two defeats in their opening encounters against Poland and Portugal, the Croatian team is determined to turn things around and secure a victory against Scotland. Head coach Zlatko Dalic expressed his satisfaction with Orsic’s comeback, highlighting the player’s hard work and dedication to recover from a serious injury.

Josip Juranovic’s Absence and Squad Update

While the return of Mislav Orsic has lifted spirits within the Croatian camp, there are still some setbacks to contend with. Former Celtic star Josip Juranovic has not fully recovered from injury in time for the upcoming match against Scotland, leaving a gap in the team’s defensive lineup. Additionally, ex-Rangers defender Borna Barisic was not included in the squad for the upcoming fixture, raising questions about the defensive strategy for the Croatian side.

Despite the absence of Juranovic and Barisic, Croatia’s squad for the match against Scotland remains strong and competitive. Dalic emphasized the importance of loyalty to players who have performed well in previous games, indicating a sense of continuity and trust within the team. As they prepare to face Scotland and Poland in their upcoming double-header, the Croatian team is focused on maintaining a positive momentum and delivering strong performances on the field.

Zlatko Dalic’s Optimism and Expectations

Looking ahead to the clash against Scotland, Zlatko Dalic expressed his optimism and high expectations for the upcoming match. The Croatian head coach highlighted the positive energy and optimism generated by the team’s performances in September, emphasizing the need to build on that momentum moving forward. Dalic stressed the importance of respect for their opponents and the commitment to a collective approach to achieve success on the field.

Dalic’s remarks underscore the team’s determination to secure positive results against Scotland and Poland, recognizing the challenges posed by both opponents. With a focus on togetherness, unity, and unwavering concentration, Croatia aims to replicate the level of performance they displayed against Poland in Osijek. As they gear up for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, the Croatian team is poised to showcase their resilience and competitive spirit on the international stage.

In conclusion, Croatia’s squad update and preparations for the upcoming clash against Scotland reflect a mix of anticipation, determination, and strategic planning. With the return of World Cup hero Mislav Orsic and the absence of key players like Josip Juranovic, the Croatian team faces both challenges and opportunities as they seek to make their mark in the Nations League. Under the guidance of Zlatko Dalic, Croatia is poised to deliver compelling performances and compete fiercely against their rivals, showcasing the talent and resilience that define their national team.