The Croatian coach mentioned some of Messi’s deficiencies: “He doesn’t defend and he doesn’t run much”

The Croatian team is once again in the semifinals of a World Cup and is now getting ready to face Argentina, considered a favorite for the title since before the start of the tournament. In the preview of the game, the coach of the Croatian team, Zlatko Dalic, made an analysis of what could be seen on the field and referred to Lionel Messi.

Although the experienced Bosnian strategist had words of praise for the ‘Flea’, he also mentioned some deficiencies that the athlete has when he steps on the pitch. “He doesn’t run much, nor does he run after the ball, but rather waits and receives with all his strength and energy”explained the technician at a press conference.

“He doesn’t defend and we don’t have to let him receive the ball, because that’s when he does the most damage, since he’s the best player in the world in the last 10 years”added Dalic, who aims to reach the final of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, just as he did in Russia 2018.

In the same way, the Croatian coach assured that he does not intend to base his strategy on Messi. “We will dedicate special attention to it. Personal branding doesn’t work, we didn’t do it last time and we won’t do it now either. We need to cover the passes to his location and reduce the spaces for him.”said the DT.

Let’s remember that the Croatian team thrashed ‘Albiceleste’ 3-0 in the previous World Cup, in the group stage, and Zlatko Dalic recalled that experience. “Surely the last defeat in Russia will also motivate him (Messi), so we hope to face a very good version of the Argentine team”indicated.

“Lionel is the best footballer in the world in the last 10 years. He is a player with tremendous quality. We have to prepare very well to face it. You don’t have to give it too many spaces. This will probably be his last World Cup and, therefore, his last chance to win it with the Argentina team.”the technician concluded.

When does Argentina vs. Croatia?

The game Argentina vs. Croatia, for the semifinal of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, will be played next Tuesday, December 13, from 2:00 pm (Peruvian time), at the Lusail Iconic Stadium. Let’s remember that the ‘Albiceleste’ has just beaten the Netherlands on penalties (4-3); while the Croats used the same route to eliminate Brazil (4-2).