Czech Republic 1-2 Croatia: Modrić Rolls Back the Years in Prague

Czech Republic 1-2 Croatia: Modrić Rolls Back the Years in Prague | Nations League Report

Croatia began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in Prague, inspired by a vintage performance from 41-year-old Luka Modrić. According to Arena Live, Slaven Bilić's return to the Croatia bench after 14 years ended in triumph at the Fortuna Arena.

Key Moments:

• 45' - Petric Sučić Denied: Deep in first-half stoppage time, Modrić's through ball sent Petric Sučić clear, but his fierce shot flew just wide of the post.
• 47' - Luka Modrić: Matanović intercepted Karabc's poor pass, and Modrić produced a stunning feint to leave Červo behind before firing a right-footed shot that deflected off Šaloupek and into the net. It was his 30th international goal in his 203rd cap.
• 54' - Adam Karabc: The Czech Republic responded immediately. After a long throw-in, Hložek crossed for Karabc, who made amends for his earlier error by firing home to level the score at 1-1.
• 77' - Marko Pašalić: Another veteran, Ivan Perišić, delivered a precise cross to the far post, and Pašalić headed the ball through Horníček's legs to restore Croatia's lead.
• 79' - Radosta Goal Disallowed: The Czech Republic thought they had equalised through Radosta, but the assistant's flag ruled it out for offside.

Modrić Rolls Back the Years: At 41, Modrić proved he remains Croatia's talisman. His goal, a moment of pure class, was his 30th for his country, moving him into fifth place on Croatia's all-time scoring list behind Šuker, Perišić, Kramarić and Mandžukić. Bilić, embracing Modrić on the touchline, summed it up perfectly: "The best players play for the national team; that is my only criterion."

Croatia's Winning Start: Bilić's decision to trust his experienced core paid off. With Modrić, Perišić, Kovačić and Livaković all starting, Croatia showed the grit and quality needed to grind out a result in Prague. The win sets up a blockbuster clash with Spain in Seville on Tuesday for top spot in Group A3.

Czech Republic's Brave Effort: Despite the defeat, Santo Dínia's side showed resilience, twice threatening to equalise. Karabc's goal and Radosta's disallowed effort kept Croatia on edge until the final whistle, but the hosts ultimately fell short against a more clinical opponent.

Match Details:

• Competition: UEFA Nations League (League A) - Matchday 1
• Venue: Fortuna Arena, Prague
• Referee: Simone Sozza