Croatia trains ahead of Nations League in Zagreb: ‘We are not outsiders’

by croatiaweek
September 1, 2020
in Sport

ZAGREB, 1 September 2020 – The Croatian national team has held its first training session after gathering in Zagreb on Monday.

Coach Zlatko Dalić shared his thoughts about the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches after a break of almost ten months. Croatia plays Portugal in Porto on 5 September before travelling to Paris to play world champions France on 8 September.

“We have two tough games ahead of us and we are aware of that. The rivals could not have been harder, especially at a time that is not ideal for football, but we are ready to do our best. I expect a good test and good preparation for what follows, World Cup qualifiers and appearance at the European Championships,” Dalić said.

“We are not going to the Nations League as outsiders, we want to win and try as many players as possible,” he added.

There are several new names among the players which gathered on Monday and Dalić explained if they will get a chance to play.

“We will try, but I don’t think it will be possible for everyone to get a chance. Training is also important. I hope no one gets injured, and the players who are for the first time in the national team, let them see what the ambiance is like. Besides, this is a great opportunity for Šime Vrsaljko to return after two years, but we will not take any risks with him,” he concluded.