Modric, at 40, Aims to Haunt England Again in World Cup Clash
Luka Modric and the Croatian national team are set to face England in a highly anticipated World Cup match later this week. This encounter recalls the dramatic semi-final of the 2018 World Cup, where Croatia eliminated England, a moment that still resonates with fans and players alike.
A Veteran’s Journey
Modric, now 40, remains a pivotal figure for Croatia, continuing to showcase his skills two decades after his international debut. In a recent warm-up match against Slovenia, he achieved his 198th cap, positioning himself to surpass the 200-cap milestone during the tournament. Despite the passage of time, Modric’s competitive spirit intensifies when facing England, a rivalry that has become emblematic of his career.
The 2018 World Cup semi-final was marked by Croatia’s determination, fueled by the perception of English arrogance and the popular chant “football’s coming home.” This phrase, often misunderstood as a straightforward declaration, was rooted in irony, reflecting England’s long wait since their last World Cup victory in 1966. Following the match, former Tottenham defender Vedran Corluka, now an assistant coach for Croatia, famously declared to the media, “football’s not coming home.”
Current Form and Team Dynamics
As Croatia prepares for this World Cup, Modric’s leadership is crucial. However, the team is facing challenges, with an aging squad that includes players like Mateo Kovacic (32), Ivan Perisic (37), and Andrej Kramaric, who will turn 35 shortly. The absence of a new generation to replace the veterans has raised concerns about Croatia’s competitiveness compared to their 2018 form, when they reached the World Cup final.
In the last four years, Croatia has seen mixed results, including a semi-final exit in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Josko Gvardiol emerged as a standout player before transferring to Manchester City for £77 million. England, on the other hand, has claimed victory in their last two encounters with Croatia, including matches in the Euros and the Nations League.
Implications for the Match
The upcoming match is not just significant for the teams but also for the coaches involved. England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, has expressed concerns about the narrative suggesting that England has an easier path in the tournament. Statistically, England faced a challenging draw based on FIFA rankings when the groups were established last December.
Modric’s recent performances have been impressive, with 47 appearances for club and country last season. While he may not possess the same stamina as in his younger years, he remains a formidable presence on the field. Observers note that he was one of AC Milan’s best players last season, demonstrating his enduring quality.
Future Uncertainty
As the tournament progresses, questions about Modric’s future loom large. His contract with AC Milan is uncertain, and there are indications that he may consider retirement after the World Cup. Despite this uncertainty, reports suggest that Real Madrid is interested in bringing him back in some capacity, given his status as one of the club’s all-time greats.
Manager Zlatko Dalic continues to rely heavily on Modric, even as he navigates the complexities of integrating younger players into the squad. Dalic’s contract is also up for discussion, adding another layer of intrigue to this heavyweight clash. Currently, Croatia ranks 11th in the world, while England sits at fourth, making this match a critical juncture for both teams.
For more details on this matchup and the latest developments in football, visit Mirror Football.
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Published on 2026-06-14 17:45:00 • By the Editorial Desk
