Croatian Football Team Have Audience with the President

New Croatia President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović has hosted the Croatian football team and management ahead of their qualifier against Norway in Zagreb on Saturday…

Croatian Football Federation President Davor Šuker and head coach Niko Kovač both gifted Grabar-Kitarović bouquets of flowers before official speeches were conducted.

“I congratulate you and thank you as players, individuals, as the best ambassadors in promoting our country. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge all fans and call on them to continue supporting. Those (fans) overseas are also ambassadors and they must act that way and avoid situations that damage Croatian football and Croatia,” said Grabar-Kitarović during her 30 minute speech.

“The promotion of sport creates a new generation of talent, but also a healthy society. Our kids are increasingly staying in their rooms with their computers, and they should be back on the playing field. Sport plays an important role in the development of society and every individual, especially through the respect of everyone around themselves ,” she added.

“We will be always with you, when you’re playing well and even when the results are not what we expect. You are always ours and I’m proud of you, as well as all other Croatian national teams in all sports. I will always strive to promote sport and I believe in you I will have skilled associates and allies. I look forward to the upcoming matches,” she concluded. (photos / Drago Sopta / HNS)