At Grabar-Kitarović's reception on Wednesday, Croatian Football Federation was represented by president Davor Šuker, executive president Damir Vrbanović and vice-presidents, while Croatia national football team was represented by coaching staff, headed by Niko Kovač, and all the players.

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

President Šuker and head coach Kovač presented the president with flowers, framed jersey and signed football.

Grabar-Kitarović then spent half an hour in a pleasant discussion with the national team and HNS delegation.

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Speaking to her guests, the president said:

"I want to express my respect as a Croatian citizen and your faithful fan, discuss football and sports with you encourage you ahead of the Norway encounter. In the years to come, I have no intention to interfere with your work, except maybe a couple of comments as a private person. Politics must keep away from sports, and sports from politics".

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

"I congratulate you and thank you as players who promote Croatia as the best ambassadors. Promoting sports creates new, talented generations, as well as a healthy society. Children these days spend too much time in their rooms with computers, and they should be back at playing fields. Sports plays a major role in society and individual growth, especially through learning about respect".

"We will always be by your side, when you play well and when the results are beneath expectations. You are always ours and I am proud of you, as well as of any Croatian international in any sport. I believe you will be my trusted associates in promoting sports, and I look forward to future matches".

foto: Drago Sopta/HNS