Croatia’s national football team, led by captain Luka Modrić, faces a pivotal Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary on September 7, 2023, with the squad aiming to maintain its position at the top of Group C. The match, scheduled for 7:00 PM CEST at Stadion Maksimir in Zagreb, marks a critical test for Croatia as it seeks to build momentum ahead of the tournament. Modrić, 38, remains a central figure in the team’s strategy, though his workload and potential rotation have drawn attention from coaches and analysts.
What’s at Stake for Croatia in the Euro 2024 Qualifier?
Croatia currently leads Group C with 10 points from four matches, but the team’s recent performances have raised questions about its consistency. The 2-1 home win against Scotland in June was bolstered by a late goal from Nikola Vlašić, while a 1-1 draw against Poland highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. A victory against Hungary would solidify Croatia’s position as a top contender in the group, according to UEFA’s official match preview.
The match carries additional significance as it serves as a test for new manager Ante Čačić, who took over in July 2023 after Zlatko Dalić stepped down following the 2022 World Cup. Čačić’s tactical adjustments, including a shift to a 3-4-3 formation in recent friendly matches, have been scrutinized by fans and media alike. “The focus is on maintaining control of the group while developing younger players,” Čačić stated in a press conference on August 30.
Modrić’s Role: Experience vs. Rotation
Modrić, Croatia’s all-time leading scorer with 122 caps, remains a linchpin for the team. However, his participation in the Hungary match is under review due to a minor hamstring strain sustained during a training session on August 28. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) confirmed the injury in a statement, noting that Modrić will undergo further evaluation ahead of the match.
Coach Čačić has hinted at a potential rotation, stating, “Luka’s experience is invaluable, but we must manage his workload carefully. We have other players ready to step up.” This approach aligns with UEFA’s guidelines on player welfare, which emphasize reducing the risk of long-term injuries for aging stars. If Modrić is rested, Mateo Kovacic or Marcelo Brozović could fill the midfield role, though both players have faced recent disciplinary issues that may influence Čačić’s decision.
Key Players and Tactical Adjustments
Croatia’s attacking trio of Vlašić, Andrej Kramarić, and Ivan Perišić has been a focal point of the team’s strategy. Kramarić, who scored 11 goals in the 2022-23 Premier League season, has been linked to a potential move to a top European club, but his focus remains on the national team. “I’m here to give my best for Croatia,” Kramarić said in a recent interview with HRT, Croatia’s public broadcaster.
Tactically, Čačić has experimented with a more fluid system, incorporating wing-backs to create width. This approach contrasts with Dalić’s more rigid 4-2-3-1 setup. The shift has been met with mixed reactions, but early results suggest it could pay dividends. In a 3-1 friendly win against Slovenia in August, Croatia’s wing-backs delivered six key passes, according to Opta data.
Hungary’s Challenge: A Resilient Opponent
Hungary, currently in second place with 7 points, enters the match with a 100% record in home qualifiers. The team, managed by Marco Rossi, has relied on a disciplined defense and counterattacking flair. Their 2-0 victory over Scotland in June featured a decisive goal from Barnabás Varga, who has emerged as a key striker.
Rossi has emphasized the importance of “staying focused” against Croatia, acknowledging the host nation’s strength. “Croatia is a strong team with great players, but we believe in our preparation,” Rossi said in a press conference. Hungary’s recent form includes a 1-1 draw with Poland, showcasing their ability to compete against top-tier opponents.
Historical Context and Fan Expectations
Croatia’s history in Euro qualifiers is marked by both triumph and near-misses. The
