Croatia brings optimism to Euro 2024 as fans set for success

Euro 2024 in Germany is upon us, and an air of optimism and enthusiasm surrounds the Croatia national team. Croatia has recently enjoyed international success. Most recently, it was a third place at the World Cup in Qatar. The quest for European success begins with the team’s opening match Saturday against Spain. Croatia has one of the oldest teams in the competition. Led by captain Luka Modrić, 38, the “Vatreni” are riding a wave of confidence fueled by their recent success on the world stage.

Croatia’s run to the 2018 World Cup final and their third-place finish at Qatar 2022 have instilled the belief that this talented generation can achieve greatness once again. Although the odds have not been in their favor, the Croatians have always defied expectations and their supporters see their team’s age not as a liability but as a wealth of experience that could propel them to new heights.

The spirit of Croatian fans is electric and many are already traveling to Germany in anticipation of the tournament kicking off. According to reports, almost 100,000 Croatian fans will travel to Berlin for the team’s opening match. It’s Saturday against Spain, one of the tournament favorites. This sea of ​​fans in red and white checks promises to create an atmosphere close to a home match for the “Vatreni”.

“We are ready to provide the best possible support to our team,” says Ivan Kolar, a Croatian expatriate in Berlin who is organizing a large gathering of supporters. “Around 100,000 Croatians will come to Berlin, so we are expecting a fantastic party!”

Croatia provides unwavering support for Euro 2024

The prospect of facing the formidable Spanish team in their first meeting in Group B does not dampen the enthusiasm of Croatian fans. Their confidence in the team’s abilities is unwavering, fueled by the memory of their recent triumphs against elite opposition.

“Croatia knows how to exceed expectations,” says Joe Strange, a journalist who has touted Croatia as a potential dark horse. “If they manage to get out of the group of death, Croatia will dream of their luck.”

While it won’t be easy to advance from a group that also includes reigning champions Italy and a resurgent Albania, the Croatians are no strangers to adversity. Their remarkable runs at the last two World Cups have shown their ability to thrive under pressure and overcome daunting obstacles.

Lots of talent, but only one Luka Modric

At the heart of Croatia’s hopes is the legendary Luka Modrić. At 38, he will probably play his last major tournament. The Real Madrid maestro is one of the greatest players of his generation. He now has the motivation to add an international trophy to his impressive silverware collection.

Modrić’s presence combines with the experience of seasoned activists like Ivan Perišić, Domagoj Vida and Marcelo Brozović. Overall, Croatia has a calming influence and a wealth of deep knowledge for the team to draw from. Younger talents like Joško Gvardiol and Luka Sučić also have the opportunity to learn from these veterans. At the same time, they contribute to Croatia’s quest for glory.

The bookmakers have Croatia long shots to win the trophy at odds of 40 to 1. Croatia are by no means a favorite. Regardless, the domestic fans remain undeterred, buoyed by the team’s proven ability to defy the odds. As the tournament draws closer, we hear the echoes of Croatian chants and the waving of their red and white checkered flags. This is undoubtedly reverberating on the streets of Germany. And at home, the scenes are a repeat of every tournament Croatia participates in. But as with every new tournament, the anticipation increases exponentially. It is a testament to the unwavering faith and passion of a nation that dares to dream big.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

Euro 2024

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