Luka Modric, the Real Madrid player who did qualify and wants to repeat the history of Russia 2018

Croatia, against all odds, reached the final of the World Cup in Russia 2018 with Luka modric as its ultimate guide and star. Four years later, this team seeks to repeat history again with the Real Madrid midfielder at the forefront of any challenge. The first step is already done. Now more are coming.

Modric, 33 years old at Russia 2018, was able to take his team further than he himself could imagine. He first won his group with a perfect score, beating Argentina, Nigeria and Iceland without much trouble. Then he had to eliminate Denmark (round of 16), host Russia (quarterfinals) and fearsome England (semifinals) to reach the World Cup final in a way never before in their history.

Unfortunately, the Croatian squad could do little to beat France in the definition of the title. They fell 4-2, but at least Modric took his individual prize: he was chosen the best player in the World Cup over Eden Hazard (2nd) and Antoine Griezmann (3rd). “Lukita” was also served by this extraordinary participation in that World Cup to win the Ballon d’Or at the end of the year.

Four years have passed since then, many things have changed, but Modric has never ceased to be transcendental. The Real Madrid midfielder continued to lead Croatia’s golden generation to try again for World Cup glory.

Of the Russia 2018 team, in fact, there are some figures like Kovacic, Perisic, Lovren, Kramaric, among others. And Luka, the undisputed captain, is still the brightest star at 37 years old. It is his last World Cup and he assumes responsibility as such.

Although the debut was not the best (0-0 draw with Morocco), Croatia was able to redeem itself with a sensational win against Canada (4-1) and, although they faltered a bit against Belgium on the last date, managed to eliminate it with a simple draw ( 0-0).

Modric, as usual, was a key man to achieve the goal. His genius, temper and leadership with the ball were fundamental. According to the SofaScore portal, against Belgium, the midfielder had 83% effectiveness in his passes, shot twice on goal, won six of nine games and could have scored a goal, but the VAR prevented him from kicking a penalty.

Be that as it may, ‘Lukita’ will be able to say he is present in the round of 16 of the World Cup again, unlike his fellow Real Madrid players from Belgium, Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazardwho could not avoid the catastrophe of their selection.

And although few still do not trust Croatia, Modric will seek to repeat the dish of four years ago, trying to reach a new final. He has plenty of conditions to achieve it.