Since independence, Croatia have qualified for seven out of nine leading tournaments, a remarkable record for a nation of their size. Yet there have been episodes of difficulty since they came within an ace of reaching the European Championship semi-finals four years ago. Losing on penalties to Turkey, after taking the lead in the final minute, inflicted psychological damage that was hard to shake off.
After being voted his country’s man of the year in 2007, Slaven Bilic has endured a more volatile relationship with the media. The former West Ham United defender has employed words such as “trampled” and “humiliated” about his treatment, which, in part, is a reflection of their failure to reach the World Cup finals in South Africa.
Getting to Poland and Ukraine has not been straightforward, either, with damaging defeats against Georgia and Greece, although there was the catharsis of a two-leg play-off victory over the Turks. However, the feeling remains that Croatia have already met expectations. Whatever happens, Bilic will be leaving his post after the summer, having agreed to coach Lokomotiv Moscow from next season.
To have any hope of getting beyond the group stage, they must start positively against Ireland and eke consistent brilliance from Tottenham Hotspur’s Luka Modric, who is the fulcrum of their side. Players such as Modric and Nikica Jelavic, of Everton, will be required to compensate for a creaking defence, which ensures Bilic must favour a counter-attacking style, but Ivica Olic, the Bayern Munich forward who is injured, will be missed. Bilic has long faced allegations that he is too close to his team, but a lack of bullishness back home may not be a bad thing, particularly as Croatia have the offensive players to take advantage of any complacency.
Tactics/Coach
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Bilic’s team are overloaded with fine attacking players, but short of pace at the back, so he must find some sort of balance. He favours 4-4-2, although that may change against Ireland, with players encouraged to break quickly and with Modric the key to their counter-attacks. Whether Bilic’s imminent departure has an effect on his squad remains to be seen, but he is confident that Croatia can beat Ireland and go toe-to-toe with Italy. If so, his star will rise again.
What Ireland should fear
Pushing forward too eagerly and leaving gaps at the back, a tactic that would play into Bilic’s hands. A majority of Croatia’s play goes through Modric, but their full backs also carry an attacking threat and Ireland must snuff out the supply lines.
Where Ireland can take advantage
Croatia’s defending does not always inspire confidence and Greece proved that they can buckle under an aerial threat, which should be inviting for the likes of Damien Duff, Aiden McGeady and James McClean.
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Star player
If Luka Modric can replicate the glittering displays he produced for Tottenham Hotspur last season, things may click nicely into place for Croatia.
A spritely and quick-thinking presence, at 26 he is of the age and form to have a significant influence at the tournament.
Sunday, June 10: Ireland v Croatia (Municipal Stadium, Poznan, 7.45pm, ITV1).
Thursday, June 14: Italy v Croatia (Municipal Stadium, Poznan, 5pm, BBC One).
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Monday, June 18: Croatia v Spain (PGE Arena, Gdansk, 7.45pm, BBC Three).