Luka Modrić presents Harry Kane with a replica of the first football brought to Croatia

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Pre-Match Ceremony

Luka Modrić presents
Harry Kane with a
replica of the first
football brought to
Croatia

12.11.2026.

photo by: Drago Sopta/HNS

Shortly before kick-off in the match between Croatia and England at Wembley, Croatia captain Luka Modrić presented England captain Harry Kane with a special gift from the Croatian Football Federation (HNS), marking his Ballon d'Or triumph and his achievement in becoming England's all-time record appearance holder.

The gift was presented by none other than Luka Modrić, Croatia's all-time record appearance holder and the first Croatian footballer to win the Ballon d'Or. This gave the occasion a special symbolic significance, bringing together two players who have both won football's most prestigious individual accolade.

The gift is a specially crafted replica of the first football ever brought to Croatia, which English industrialists introduced to the town of Županja in 1880. This historic event is regarded as the beginning of organised football on Croatian soil and one of the defining moments in the history of Croatian football. The arrival of the ball from England marked the beginning of a story that would, over the decades, grow into one of Croatia's most cherished sporting traditions.

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

More than 145 years later, the Croatian Football Federation has chosen to honour this historic connection between Croatian and English football with a symbolic gift for Harry Kane, who has become England's all-time record appearance holder with 126 caps.

The significance of this gift is further underscored by the fact that it represents an exceptionally prestigious honour. The only other recipient of the same gift was Pope Francis, who received it during a private audience in 2024.

The following message is inscribed on the box containing the replica:

TO HARRY KANE

Congratulations on winning the Ballon d'Or and becoming England's all-time record appearance holder with 126 caps – two remarkable achievements that reflect your extraordinary career and lasting legacy.

In 1880, English industrialists brought the first football to Croatia, introducing the beautiful game to the people of Županja and leaving them a gift that would become part of Croatian football history.

Today, we are proud to return that gesture with this replica of the historic ball – a symbol of the lasting bond between English and Croatian football.

With heartfelt congratulations and best wishes,

Croatia National Team & Croatian Football Federation

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

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