Posted by bb on October 19, 2003, 9:10 pm
There are two things extremly evident of the Croatian national team character since France 98. We play with defensive tactics and defensive minded players. I say it a stigma from the dissy heights of France 98.
Our achievements and success then needs to be put into context. It was a one off, everything just perfectly fell into place. We had a once in a lifetime generation of players , we struck a purple patch of form and we had luck. We are lucky to have witnessed such a marvelous thing.
I fell today our coaches and officials are playing not to lose rather than playing to win. Since France 98 we have played with extremly defensive tactics and defensive minded players. It was evidenced in our first game in Japan/ Korea. We played with four defenders, one defensive (virtually a defender) midfielder, three midfieders and a sole sriker (Suker) and no wingers or pacey attacking players. On the bench there was the likes of Stanic, Rapaic, Vugrenec, Vlahovic ect. Japan/ Korea was a huge failure we played ultra defensive hoping not to concede a goal and pinching one ourselves. I would have rather played attacking (but accountable) football if you get beaten then at least you gave yourself every chance of winning and the better side wins.
Today we see more of the same in my opinion.........the game against the Slovenes will make or break our style, but I wouldn't be holding my breath and booking my seats in Portugal just yet...........I'd like your predictions???
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