Croatia appear a side rejuvenated under Zlatko Dalic, who only took charge with one World Cup qualification match remaining. His side were beaten to top spot in qualifying by Iceland but have not yet lost a competitive game under him, and this win – with a much-changed line-up – perhaps points to a confidence running through the squad. Only Perisic and Luka Modric remained from the 3-0 win over Argentina, but players such as Fiorentina midfielder Badelj showcased the depth of talent.
Real Madrid’s Mateo Kovacic came into the side, and in 82 minutes completed 78 of his 79 passes in a composed display, while former Tottenham defender Vedran Corluka was robust and completed a game-high nine clearances. This was far from an intense or overly impressive display by the group winners, but they spent long spells keeping possession without ever looking like over-exerting themselves. Ultimately, the result only adds to their momentum.
They have now won three World Cup matches in a row for the first time and, in doing so, win a group at the tournament for the first time too. Dalic says he is convinced the last 16 will not be the end for his side. They look set to arrive in Nizhny Novgorod for Sunday’s meeting with Denmark fresh and dangerous.