PHOTOS: Croatian fans get Poljud stadium ready for spectacle against Russia
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
Around 30,000 Croatian fans are expected at Poljud stadium in Split on Sunday for Croatia’s World Cup qualifier against Russia.
A win and Croatia will earn direct qualification to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a draw or loss and they will face yet another play-off to go through.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić has made no secret that his side enjoys the special atmosphere in Split and on Sunday afternoon it will be no different.
One supporters’ group, Mi Hrvati, were at the stadium on Saturday preparing by hanging up banners. Among them is a large banner dedicated to the city of Vukovar, which will remembers the victims of Homeland War on 18 November.
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
(Photo: Mi Hrvati/Facebook)
Mi Hrvati are also organising a big procession on Sunday to honour Vukovar. The organised 30 minute walk will commence at 12:30 pm at the the start of Marmontova Street.
“On this special occasion, the focus is exclusively on Vukovar, and in front of the procession of fans there will be only one banner in honour of the city of heroes Vukovar. All participants should be in the procession behind the banner except the camera crew. Everyone is invited, be a part of the spectacle,” Mi Hrvati said on its Facebook page.
Croatia’s coach has said that the match against Russia is a once or twice in a career match for the players and that it will be very different to any other game.
“We all live for such matches, such an atmosphere is experienced once or twice in a career. Regardless of the fact that all our players play in big clubs, it is completely different when they play in the national team. It is pride, passion, emotion and patriotism. It is something that has no price.”
Croatia has never lost to Russia, and in five matches between the two sides Croatia has won twice, once on penalties, and there have been three goalless draws.
The match kicks off on Sunday, 14 November at 3 p.m. local time.
