FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template

World Cup new boys Croatia are many peoples’ idea of a side that can really go places in France this summer.

Certainly Miroslav Blazevic, their 62-year-old coach, believes so: after all, he’s seen it in the stars.

A keen astrologer, he predicted after his side had scraped through a tougher than expected qualifiying campaign: “I’m convinced that we are ready for something big, and it will happen in France.” I admire France and the French in many respects, and when I was coach of Nantes I helped in the development of some of their players. They will get to the final and so will we.” 

The hard-hitting smooth-talking chain-smoker almost resigned after Croatia’s 2-1 defeat to Germany in Euro 96. His head was once again on the block after the side threw away a 3-1 lead to draw 3-3 against Slovenia in their fourth qualifying match, leading to a furious protest from fans.

But wins against Greece and Bosnia restored his tarnished reputation and after rising to the challenge of beating Ukraine in the play-offs Croatia were in.

Blazevic has the job of fusing together experienced players like Real Madrid striker Davor Suker with fresh blood, although the loss of the experienced Alen Boksic comes as a blow. The Croatia Zagreb duo Goran Juic and Dario Simic have fitted in well during the qualifying stages, giving the team strength in defence. Up front Croatia are well served by the fast, agressive Suker. Selected by one Croatian newspaper as the best player in the squad last year, Slaven Bilic of Everton holds a unique place as the only team member with a university degree. He was appointed captain after only two months.