Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić prepares for crucial World Cup clash

Croatia enters the upcoming World Cup tournament seeking a third straight medal after winning silver in Russia 2018 and bronze in Qatar 2022 under coach Zlatko Dalić. The team faces a decisive group‑stage match against England, with Dalić emphasizing a pragmatic approach and acknowledging defensive vulnerabilities that have surfaced in recent friendlies.

Former Dinamo Zagreb manager Mario Cvitanović, speaking about Dalić’s future, highlighted potential successors, stating that “Ćorluka already possesses the authority, attitude, knowledge and locker‑room respect needed for the role.” He also mentioned Vedran Ćorluka, Ivica Olić and other candidates who could step in if Dalić departs, underscoring the ongoing debate over the next national team manager.

The discussions reflect both the pressure to repeat past success and the uncertainty surrounding the coaching succession as Croatia prepares for its pivotal encounter with England.