Croatia's Zlatko Dalic Praises Luka Modric Ahead of World Cup Match Against Panama

Ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup match against Panama, Croatia's manager Zlatko Dalic has lauded veteran player Luka Modric, calling him his 'right hand on the pitch.' Following a disappointing loss to England, Dalic emphasizes the need for improvement and courage as they aim for victory. Modric, nearing his 200th international cap, is celebrated not only for his skills but also for his leadership and humility. As Croatia seeks to redeem themselves, the pressure mounts to meet the high expectations set by their previous successes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 15:55 IST

Dalic Commends Modric's Leadership

As Croatia prepares for their FIFA World Cup match against Panama, manager Zlatko Dalic has expressed high praise for veteran player Luka Modric, referring to him as "his right hand on the pitch."

After suffering a 4-2 defeat to England in their opening match, Croatia is set to face Panama in Toronto. The team, which finished as runners-up in 2018 and secured third place in 2022, aims to win the tournament for Modric, who is on the verge of earning his 200th international cap.

Modric: A Role Model for Teammates

In comments reported by FIFA, Dalic, who has worked alongside Modric for over a decade, stated, "He is my right hand on the pitch. Luka Modric exemplifies how we should conduct ourselves. He has won the Golden Ball and every accolade in football. His most admirable trait is his relentless spirit. He leads both on and off the field."

Defender Josip Stanisic also praised Modric's impressive career, noting that while he can only aspire to reach 100 caps, Modric serves as a role model for all players. "He is a global star yet remains humble and approachable, which may be his greatest quality," Stanisic remarked.

Addressing Past Mistakes

Dalic acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that there is little room for excuses following their loss to England. "We made too many mistakes in defense and gifted England several opportunities. Panama is a strong team with quick players, so we must be courageous, decisive, and determined. As favorites, we need to perform accordingly and expect positive results," he emphasized.

He also mentioned the pressure that comes with high expectations, noting, "We have set a high standard for ourselves after winning medals in the last two tournaments. We cannot rely on past achievements. Every match is a chance to prove our worth to our fans."

Conclusion

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)