Zlatko Dalić, the Croatian national football team coach, breathed a sigh of relief after their recent victory over Armenia and qualification for the fourth consecutive major competition. In an interview with Nova TV, he expressed his congratulations to the players on their achievement and to the fans for their support.
“It was a tough game,” said Dalić. “We knew we had to win six points to qualify and we did just that. The players showed character and responsibility, it was difficult, but that’s just how it goes with us.”
Croatia achieved its goal and made a great success in qualifying for the Euro. Dalić considered it to be a success and everything over is a big plus. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the qualification process.
Two years ago, Dalić cried in Split when Croatia defeated Russia, but this time he held back his emotions. “No, I’m over it,” he said. “It was hard and tense. We are 1-0 now, so you wait and worry, but everything turned out as it should be.”
Dalić thanked God for giving Croatia a chance to qualify for the Euro and taking advantage of it. He also asked if he watched the match between Wales and Turkey. “We didn’t want to watch that second game because we were nervous,” he said. “We wanted to focus only on ourselves.”
Luka Modrić was not satisfied with some aspects of the game according to Dalić, but they will make an analysis in seven months ahead of them before summer tournament starts in Germany where tens of thousands of fans are waiting for them again. Croatia showed faith, togetherness, patriotism during this qualifying campaign which brought them great joy as well as success on field . Ante Budimir played fantastic two games , scored winning goal and deserved it , Dalić added .