Available for the Team

"I feel better and better with each passing day. It has been a difficult year, but for the last two months I have been fully fit and back in full training. I am ready to give everything I have and be available to the team.

"We are expecting a difficult match against a tough opponent. No game at the World Cup is easy. Panama know how to play, build attacks and be dangerous on the counterattack. However, we are focused on ourselves and ready to show the best version of our team and deliver a strong performance. That is exactly what we need."

Panama After England

"The longer break between matches has been positive for us. We had time to analyse the England match and prepare for Panama. We recovered after a mentally and physically demanding game and prepared well.

"We have shown many times that we perform at our best when circumstances are the most difficult. That comes from our character, pride and unity – that is how we overcome difficult moments. There were positive aspects in the match against England, but there were also things we needed to improve. Now we want to produce the best football we can."

No Living on Past Success

"I think we have achieved great results and everyone appreciates what we do and respects Croatia. We have earned that respect through our behaviour, hard work and performances.

"But this is a new competition and tomorrow is a new match. You cannot live on past glory. We face a difficult opponent and Panama will give everything they have, just as we will. We cannot wait for kick-off."

Support from the Fans

"It is truly incredible. We are a small country, yet our supporters are always there in large numbers. I want to thank them for that.

"It shows our unity and how much everyone lives for Croatia's success. We are used to seeing our fans travel in great numbers to support us. That is nothing new."

Luka Modrić

"Luka's character is the key. He never gives up, and he has demonstrated that throughout his entire career.

"There is no need to discuss his footballing qualities. He is a leader both on and off the pitch and an example of how to represent the Croatian jersey. He has overcome many challenges in his career and can serve as a role model for younger players, proving that there is no success without hard work."

Croatia's Midfield

"Our midfield has always been one of our strengths. We have been solid, responsible and dominant in possession.

"The coach will decide who plays. Petar Sučić is not exactly the same type of player as Marcelo Brozović. He can play both as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box midfielder. He is an outstanding player and shows his quality every day.

"We are happy to have him with us and to see his progress. Whoever the coach chooses, it will be the right decision."