ORLANDO, Fla. – As Croatia prepares for a high-profile friendly against Brazil in Orlando on Tuesday night (2:00 AM CET), midfielder Lovro Majer reflected on the significance of facing the Seleção, a team that holds a special place in his footballing heart. The match, a key part of Croatia’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, carries added weight for Majer, who fondly remembers watching Brazilian legends ignite his passion for the game.
The 28-year-old Wolfsburg player, who played a part in Croatia’s historic quarterfinal victory over Brazil at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – even converting a penalty in the shootout – acknowledged the challenge ahead. “Personally, I feel ready and excellent,” Majer said. “Brazil and Colombia? Brazil is certainly a bigger name, in terms of individual players and everything. But Colombia is also a good team. Perhaps in some segments, as a team, they are even better than Brazil, but that doesn’t necessarily imply anything.”
Despite a challenging season with Wolfsburg, Majer expressed optimism about salvaging their Bundesliga campaign, with seven matches remaining. He also emphasized his focus on representing his country and preparing for the World Cup. “It won’t be an effortless match against Brazil, but we’re going to enjoy it and prepare as best as possible for the World Cup through this game,” he stated. Majer has earned 37 caps for the Croatian national team, scoring eight goals.
The memory of that stunning victory in Qatar remains vivid. “It was a beautiful experience, a beautiful match. Maybe the biggest win of my career. Actually, definitely is. And then all the emotions after the match. We all have that experience and I have that experience too.”
The contrast between the vibrant atmosphere of the national team setup and his club situation is stark. “Yes, these are really good days. Unfortunately, the season is what it is, we won’t shy away from that. It’s certainly nice to come here, to a new environment, to be with my people, to enjoy the good weather, the conditions… But I believe we will manage to save the season in the seven matches remaining in the Bundesliga.”
When asked about the potential for a move should Wolfsburg be relegated, Majer remained diplomatic. “I don’t know…”
Assessing the shift in power between Croatia and Brazil since their 2022 encounter, Majer believes the balance remains relatively unchanged. “It’s all about the same. These are matches where you play against the biggest teams… Details, small things, and sometimes luck can decide these matches. I believe it will be the same this time. The stakes are much lower now, though.”
He also offered his assessment of the current Brazilian squad under coach Carlo Ancelotti. “They are strong, especially when you look at the individual players. Perhaps one of the strongest national teams in the world. The question is only how Ancelotti will fit them together, how they will function as a team, and whether they will be able to prepare as best as possible. Our plus is that, with players like Luka [Modrić], Ivan [Perišić], and even myself now, we’ve been together for a long time. And that has a sizeable impact on the way the national team plays, the atmosphere. That may be one of our biggest advantages.”
Majer’s footballing journey began with a deep admiration for Brazilian flair. “Ronaldinho was the first player because of whom I fell in love with football. At the time when he was at his peak, and Kaká too. And today? Raphinha, the way he plays, how much he fights, the quality he has. And how much he works for the team. There are many players who are so good, but no one works as hard for the team as he does.”
The competition for a spot in the final World Cup squad is fierce, with the anticipated return of Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić. Majer acknowledged the challenge but remains focused on proving his worth. “Honestly, I’m not thinking too much about that. I will do everything to be at the World Cup. I have seven matches left until the finish of the season and I will do everything to deserve a call-up.”
His motivation is simple: to play, to improve, to score goals, to provide assists, and to represent his country on the biggest stage. “And to be as often as possible at events like these, in the national team, and maybe one day in an even bigger club.”
Croatia will face Brazil at the Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on Tuesday night. The match will serve as a valuable test for Zlatko Dalić’s side as they fine-tune their preparations for the World Cup. Fans can follow updates and official announcements through the Croatian Football Federation’s official website and social media channels.
The friendly against Brazil is a significant milestone in Croatia’s World Cup preparations, offering a chance to gauge their progress against one of the world’s elite teams. Majer’s enthusiasm and dedication, coupled with the team’s experience and unity, will be crucial as they aim to build a strong impact on the global stage.
