Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic reflect on Croatia's defeat to Spain
Midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic reacted to Croatia's 2-1 loss to Spain, emphasizing the team's improved aggression and the importance of home support.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Ruben Ortega
Following Croatia's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Spain, midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic shared their disappointment. A late 88th-minute volley from Mikel Merino decided the contest, leaving the hosts heartbroken despite creating several chances earlier in the match, even after Ivan Perisic was sent off in the 79th minute.
It really is a shame for all of us. It was a tough match, especially when you concede to make it 2-1 in the 90th minute after having two good chances before that. Kristijan Jakic
Kovacic focused on the squad's response following their previous performance against England. He noted that while a defeat is never positive, the team showed a necessary reaction after a difficult few days. He stressed the importance of being aggressive and fighting for every ball—an area where they had fallen short previously.
Jakic acknowledged the superior quality of the Spanish side, noting that their technical dominance and control—evidenced by 67% possession—gradually broke down Croatia's defensive shape, particularly after the numerical disadvantage took its toll.
Both players expressed deep gratitude to the 32,000 fans at Stadion Poljud. Jakic highlighted that the constant support throughout the match served as a vital boost for the squad, especially following such a difficult result.