A Legend's Last Dance at the World Cup: Ageless Luka Modrić Opens Up on Tournament Emotions

Croatia kicks off their tournament campaign with a Wednesday Group K clash against England. This match in Arlington, Texas, is set to be one of the most anticipated of the tournament across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Modrić captains the Croatian squad that famously defeated England in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. Even at an advanced age, he remains a pivotal figure in midfield. Alongside stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, this event is poised to be his final major tournament.

Currently playing for AC Milan in Italy, he previously spent over a decade at Real Madrid. In the USA, he is expected to reach his 200th cap for the national team, currently sitting at 198 appearances.

"Every tournament and every match is something special, especially with the national team at 40 years old. My goal is to enjoy it. To give my best, but also to savor every moment. I want to enjoy every game, every training session with the lads," Modrić stated ahead of the encounter against England.

Croatia navigated qualification relatively smoothly, yet they arrive at the championship without much fanfare, much like in previous major tournaments. Despite the squad's higher average age, England should not underestimate them.

The squad also features experienced 37-year-old winger Ivan Perišić, as well as the Manchester City duo of Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić. Another intriguing player is 19-year-old defender Luka Vušković from German club Hamburg, who is expected to feature against England. Modrić admitted that the younger players in the team energize him and make him feel younger.

Long-serving coach Zlatko Dalić is looking forward to the match against England and the duel against their captain, Harry Kane. "The opponent is very high quality. We know the English quality, we've analyzed them, and they know us... they are very dangerous. They have some of the best goalscorers in the world. Kane can do a lot, really a lot. We are well prepared for that," Dalić said, also highlighting the threat from set-pieces under coach Thomas Tuchel.

In Group L, Croatia and England are joined by Ghana and Panama.