Croatia’s Dream Rollercoaster: From Extra‑Time to Final Frenzy
Coach Zlatko Dalic is buzzing with confidence that his Croatian squad can power through fatigue and face France in the World Cup final, even though they just battled a 2‑hour marathon to beat England on Wednesday. The European minnows have already stretched their legs for a whole match more than the French.
Why Tiredness Feels like a Draft Decision
- Back at Moscow, the team clawed back a goal and secured victory in the 109th minute thanks to Mario Mandzukic’s last‑minute winner.
- Before that, they survived extra time against Denmark and then faced a penalty shoot‑out with Russia.
- So, Monday’s big win over England was a saga of 120 minutes, which means the lads have barely had a breather.
Coach’s Playbook: “Never Lose a Game”
Dalic’s smile was contagious when he praised his side’s character. He jokes that two players had “half a leg” but the team still kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. “Nobody wanted to be substituted… we played like the first game in the tournament again,” he told reporters, insisting there will be no excuses for fatigue.
Historically, That’s a “New Record”
Only one team has carved a path to the final after facing extra time in all three knockout rounds—England in 1990. Croatia’s journey is reminiscent of small countries stepping onto the grand stage; the next time a four‑million‑person nation reaches the final might take another century.
What’s the Uplift for the Croatian People?
“For Croatia, this is history in the making,” Dalic said. “We’re talking about a physics experiment where the smallest country defies the giants.”
With a shining Luka Modric guiding the midfield, the team has proven their prowess since quashing Lionel Messi and Argentina (in a 3‑0 group win). Murilo Brozovic also came in clutch to add defensive steel.
In Summary: One More Final Push
Their Giants in the League of Nations match against England in October is foreshadowed as a test of meta‑energy: “We don’t have a proper stadium,” Dalic chuckles, “but we have hearts, pride, and skill — the real MVPs.” So, if Croatia can keep those big legs going and swallow the extra-hour trade‑offs, they might just add a new chapter to football folklore.
