Marko Livaja and Ivica Ivušić ahead of clash with Slovenia

Marko Livaja and Ivica Ivušić (Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

CROATIA faces Slovenia on Tuesday night at Poljud Stadium in Split.

Ahead of the match, Hajduk Split striker Marko Livaja and goal keeper Ivica Ivušić, who had a standout debut in last night’s 1-0 win over Slovakia, spoke to the media. 

Livaja: We have more quality

“We are a better team than Slovenia, we have to position ourselves and show that on the field. Kek is a proven good coach, but we have to concentrate on ourselves and then the victory should not be in question,” Livaja said, adding:

“I’m not worried about whether I will be a starter, I’m happy to be back in the national team. It’s the job of the coach. I’m here to enter the game one hundred percent and do my best. We are better than Slovenia.”

Marko Livaja (Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

Ivušić: It is up to goalies to make saves 

Ivušić started by thanking Zlatko Dalić for the opportunity to make his debut for the national team.

“Thanks to the coach for the trust he placed in me for the match against Slovakia. The emotions are great and they can’t be suppressed so easily. I made a boy’s dream come true. It was wonderful.

“If I am in goal against Slovenia, I will have to concentrate, but that’s the way it is. It’s a goalkeeper’s job, we’re here to save something. I am glad that I made a good impression, but the most important thing is that Croatia continues to win. I expect a solid match and I’m sure the coach will know how to set it up. I also expect the support of the fans. There is always a fantastic atmosphere at Poljud,” said Ivušić.

Ivica Ivušić (Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)