Croatia’s Luka Modric hints toward retirement after hard-earned Man of the Match award against Italy
Luka Modric helped Croatia clinch a draw in their Euro 2024 fixture against Italy
Luka Modric delivered a notable performance in the Croatia vs Italy Euro 2024 fixture. The match was a crucial one for Croatia to win in terms of a round of 16 qualification. However, a tie would have kept them in the hunt but they would be forced to wait for other results all around the tournament.
The veteran midfielder Modric was able to give his side a lead in the game when he scored in the 55th minute of the game. It looked like Croatia was on the way to sealing a place in the next round, but in the added time of 98th-minute Italy’s Mattia Zaccagni scored to level the proceedings on the day.
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As the Group B table stood after the match ended in a draw, Spain and Italy have qualified for the round of 16 while Croatia’s hopes for the next round hang in balance at the moment. Despite scoring and receiving the Man of the Match award, Luka Modric appeared to be deeply sad. Several reports have pointed out that maybe the veteran feels that he fell short in getting his team over the line in what might turn out to be his last UEFA Euro match.
Also during his post-match interview, when praised by a reporter for his performances over the year, the 38-year-old signalled that he would also want to keep playing but at some moment he would have to “hang up” his boots. Croatia didn’t have a great UEFA Euro 2020 campaign, and it looks like they might fall short in the ongoing Euros as well. It remains to be seen whether Luka Modric will continue his stint on the international stage.
Luka Modric for Croatia on the international stage so far
Current Croatia Captain Luka Modric made his debut on the international stage in March 2006. Till now the prolific midfielder has played a respectable sum of 178 matches for his side at the highest level. He’s been the pillar of the Croatia National Football team in enabling them to punch above their weight in the world of international football.
In addition to contributions as a midfielder, the 38-year-old also has 26 goals to his name for his country in the international arena. Over the years he has been the first name on the team sheet as far as the Croatian playing eleven is concerned. Modric has so far played in nine major tournaments (including the Euro 2024) for Croatia. If he is to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup that would be his 10th for the country.