Zlatko Dalic: Croatia did not deserve to be eliminated
The Croatia head coach believes his side matched Portugal but failed to capitalize on key moments in their 2026 World Cup exit.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Russian Presidential Press and Information Office
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic expressed his disappointment after his side's defeat to Portugal in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. Despite the tournament exit, the manager insists that the performance of his players deserved a different outcome.
Dalic pointed to a strong second-half display where his team controlled the pace and created numerous scoring opportunities. According to the coach, the lack of clinical finishing in front of goal proved decisive in a match where they were often on the front foot.
I am sorry, but especially in the second half we were better than the Portuguese, we created many chances, we played well, but we conceded two goals. So many emotions. I have nothing to complain about – the boys fought, they tried, but... Zlatko Dalic
The manager highlighted that his team had chances to extend their lead to 2-0 before the match turned against them. Dalic maintained that Croatia played on par with Portugal and that their elimination felt harsh given the intensity and effort shown on the pitch.