The Croatian national football team is preparing for a key World Cup 2026 qualifying match against the Czech Republic. A victory over the Czech team would practically open the doors to the World Cup in North America. Captain Luka Modrić and coach Zlatko Dalić emphasize the importance of this match and the team’s motivation. Croatia has achieved good results so far in the qualifiers, and a win would be a significant step towards first place in the group and the status of a seeded team in the draw. The match will be held in Osijek, with Spanish referee Jesús Gil Manzano appointed as the main official. Media are following preparations and expectations, highlighting the importance of players like Ivan Perišić and Luka Modrić.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the unity and motivation of the Croatian team, highlighting the social and cultural importance of football as a unifying national symbol. They focus on the players’ dedication and the collective effort to secure a place in the World Cup, often mentioning the role of sports in promoting national pride and cohesion.
Center: Centrist sources provide balanced coverage focusing on the sporting aspects, such as team strategy, player performance, and the significance of the match in the qualification process. They highlight key players like Luka Modrić and Ivan Perišić, the tactical decisions by coach Zlatko Dalić, and the logistical preparations for the match, including the appointment of the referee and venue details.
Right: Right-leaning media tend to emphasize national pride and the importance of victory as a demonstration of Croatian strength and excellence. They often highlight the leadership of veteran players like Modrić and the strategic acumen of the coach, framing the match as a crucial step in asserting Croatia’s place on the global football stage. There may also be a focus on the competitive rivalry with the Czech team and the significance of securing a top position in the group.
