Croatia in focus – World Cup finalists next up for England in Nations League

Croatia in focus – World Cup finalists next up for England in Nations League

England take on Croatia in a behind-closed-doors Nations League clash in Rijeka on Friday night.

The hosts saw off the Three Lions in a 2-1 extra-time win in their World Cup semi-final meeting during the summer.

Here, Press Association Sport takes a closer look at the World Cup runners-up.

Form

Marko Mandzukic's goal saw Croatia beat England in extra-time of their World Cup semi-final - Croatia have not won since.
Marko Mandzukic’s goal saw Croatia beat England in extra-time of their World Cup semi-final – Croatia have not won since (Tim Goode/PA)

Coach

Zlatko Dalic was appointed as Croatia head coach 12 months ago.
Zlatko Dalic was appointed as Croatia head coach 12 months ago (Tim Goode/PA)

Tactics

Mandzukic's goal in the World Cup final was his last before he announced his international retirement.
Mandzukic’s goal in the World Cup final was his last before he announced his international retirement (Aaron Chown/PA)

Players

Luka Modric collected The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award  2018 in London last month.
Luka Modric collected The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2018 in London last month (Tim Goode/PA)

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