Croatia will attempt to break Spain’s impressive streak of 39 matches without defeat tonight. The match, the second round of Group A3 in the Nations League, begins at 20:45.
Both teams entered the competition with victories. Croatia defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in Prague, while Spain were better than England 3-2 at Wembley. These victories add weight to tonight’s clash, as two teams open the competition in a positive manner.
Mateo Kovačić is aware of the opponent’s strength, but states that Croatia did not travel to Seville solely to defend. He believes the ‘Croatians’ are facing the best team in the world, yet believes his team has enough quality to impose their ideas. He particularly highlighted the quality of Spain’s midfield and Rodri, with whom he has shared a dressing room for three years.
Kovačić expects the host to play with possession and attacking intent, but believes that Croatia can respond to that challenge. The ‘Croatians’ will not rush, but will play their game and compete with the world champions. When asked if Croatia could break Spain’s streak, Kovačić did not hesitate, replying: ‘We can certainly do it.’
Bilić praised Kovačić after the victory over the Czech Republic, describing him as a ‘wing in the middle of the pitch’. Kvačić states that the praise is welcome, but emphasizes that it is the team’s functioning that is most important. It is this team spirit, combined with the quality they possess, that gives Croatia hope of achieving a positive result against a side that has not lost for a long time.
