Croatia head coach Slaven Bilic and players Josip Misic and Simun Hrgovic have previewed their crucial upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against England and the Czech Republic, with the squad seeking redemption after a previous defeat to England.
Bilic outlines ambition and belief against elite teams
Croatia national team head coach Slaven Bilic has led his squad into camp ahead of their final UEFA Nations League group fixtures against England and the Czech Republic, which are described as crucial.
Speaking at his squad announcement press conference, Bilic said: "If you remember what I said when I came, my plan and desire haven't changed one bit. To achieve that, then you have to beat those national teams too. I'm sure we can do it."
The manager added: "We can't continuously play against them three times in a week, like in the first cycle, but in an isolated match, in a big competition, where everything changes in our favor, absolutely anything is possible. If we believe in that, and I'm sure of that and we've shown that for years, it would be good if we all started believing in that. There's a new opportunity in five days."
Misic reflects on England loss and drive to make amends
The Croatia squad has assembled with high energy, aiming to build momentum starting with their upcoming double-header against England and the Czech Republic, and are looking to bounce back from a tough previous defeat to England.
Midfielder Josip Misic said: "We suffered a tough defeat against England, the only thing left for us is to make amends."
He added: "We will have to be maximally focused, with a lot of energy, and if we give our all, we have the right to expect a positive result. The atmosphere is relaxed, the guys are great."
Hrgovic on facing England and the Czech Republic
Debutant fullback Simun Hrgovic echoed Bilic's determination to deliver a positive result following past setbacks against England.
Hrgovic said: "England is a tough opponent, we need to play a manly, tough match. We're going to win against the Czech Republic."
Osijek clash holds special meaning for Hrgovic
Following their clash with England, Croatia will host the Czech Republic in Osijek, and the match there carries special personal significance for young defender Hrgovic.
He explained: "Everyone is going to come to that game, everyone has already asked me for tickets. I'm very happy and excited about it."
