Croatia’s Secret To Success

Croatia has been making the headlines in the recent years following their stunning performance in the international circuit. With a population of only 41.5 lakhs (appox), coupled with a ‘modest’ football infrastructure, not only did they make it to the finals of the World Cup 2018, they defeated teams like Argentina and England to script history. The secret to their success lies at their coaching tactics starting right at the ‘grassroots level’, and with the philosophy of bringing in players who can ‘think with their feet’. Although, football facilities might not be as good as other football playing nations, they make it up for quality coaching. After joining FIFA in 1992, Croatia missed out only one World Cup in 1998. Apart from having technically-gifted players, the coaches are well paid and are licensed who share their expertise and helps in proper development of the players. Also players like Modric, Mandzukic, Rakitic play in top level leagues around Europe thus adding experience to the national team.