FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template

Croatia warmed up for the World Cup finals in magnificent style here on Saturday beating Australia 7-0 in a friendly to give the visitors coach Terry Venables a humiliating end to his 18 month reign.

Real Madrid striker Davor Suker hit a hat-trick, including two penalties, while AC Milan star Zvonimir Boban struck twice-veteran playmaker Robert Prosinecki and Ardian Kozniku were the Croats other marksmen.

Venables’ contract with Soccer Australia expires next month ending a dramatic, if ultimately fruitless, 18 months in charge of the Socceroos. El Tel has been appointed manager of London club Crystal Palace, who were relegated to the English first division from the Premier League this year.

Australia were eliminated from the World Cup by Iran, who won on the away goals after drawing their second leg Asian zone playoff 2-2 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground last November following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Teheran.