Many people say age is just a number, but Luka Modric is a living example of that. At 37, the veteran Croat is still a force to reckon with in the midfield. A 5 time UCL winner and former Ballon d’Or winner, Modric has won every possible trophy at the club level. However, an international trophy still eludes him and his compatriots. As their quest for an international trophy continues, they have given themselves another chance at glory by reaching the UEFA Nations League 2024 Final, where they will meet former world champions Spain.
Will Croatia Cross the Finishing Line This Time?
Always considered an underdog, the Balkan country has often exceeded expectations at international tournaments recently. After gaining independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, Croatia qualified for their first-ever FIFA world cup in 1998 and surprised everyone by finishing third, losing to eventual winners France in the semis.
After some underwhelming world cup campaigns, they shone once again on the big stage in 2018, where they finished runners-up to France. They followed up that by finishing third at the recently concluded World Cup in Qatar and now are in the finals of the Nations League. These performances show the grit and determination of Croatian players but at the same time also highlight their inability to cross the finishing line.
Source: FIFA
After the win against the Netherlands, Croatian coach Zlatko Dalic said, “We have once again become a powerhouse in football, showing that despite all our problems, we have quality and character.”
He further added, “Now we need to stay calm and smart, win that gold. That’s my great wish … bronze, silver, and gold.”
While the Balkan nation has indeed established itself as a footballing powerhouse, they will need their Captain at his best to beat the mighty La Furia Roja.
“He’s Never Tired of It:” What Makes Luka Modric Unstoppable?
Since making his debut in 2006, Modric has amassed 165 caps for Croatia, becoming their most-capped player ever. The midfield maestro once again pulled strings against the Netherlands in the semi-final. Besides controlling the midfield, he converted a penalty and also assisted Petkovic for the third goal to beat the Dutch 4-2 in extra time.
Joselu, who scored the winner against Italy for Spain, said, “Luka Modric still has that hunger and ambition to win things, he’s never tired of it. He’s an example for all kids out there and another sign that age means nothing.”
While his Real Madrid contract extension talks are going on, there has always been a lot of discussion surrounding his future in the last few years. Some reports have suggested that he might call it a day at the international stage after the Nations League final but he has made it clear that he will decide that only after the tournament.
Source: Real Madrid
“I always enjoy playing for the national team, and it’s not because it could be my last competition or last match,” said Modric.
He further added, “Every single match, every training session with the national team is a joy. As long as I feel I can help, there’s no reason for me not to be here.”
Born in a war-torn country, Modric’s love for football provided solace and a means of expression. His exceptional technical skills and vision quickly caught the attention of scouts, leading him to sign for Dinamo Zagreb and embark on a remarkable career. From there, he went to Tottenham Hotspurs before eventually signing for ‘Los Blancos’.
While Real Madrid have brought young players like Valverde, Tchoaumeni, and Camavinga, none of them have been able to displace Modric from his starting spot yet. The legendary midfielder once again showed his fitness level in the Semi-final as he played exceptionally well for 119 minutes to take Croatia home.
Speaking on Modric, Croatian coach Dalic said, “Luka is unique, unrepeatable in the whole world, he is an icon wherever he goes. When he was substituted he received an ovation from the whole stadium.”
Such reception by both home and away fans is not new for Modric, as he has received plenty of them during his illustrious club career. However, with the towering legacy he has on and off the field, it will only be befitting if he gets his hands on the elusive gold before hanging his boots.
But beating Spain won’t be an easy task for the Vatreni. Even after having a gigantic pool of talented players La Rojas have failed to leave any mark on the international stage since the 2012 Euros and will be looking to end their 11-year trophy drought themselves. Nevertheless, fans would expect a nail-biting encounter.
