Zlatko Dalić: The Match Against Portugal Will Be a Midfield Battle

Croatia's head coach, Zlatko Dalić, believes the true battle in their upcoming World Cup Round of 16 clash against Portugal will unfold in midfield, where both teams boast formidable players. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for tonight at 2:00 AM Bulgarian time.

"I believe this will be a midfield battle. Portugal has excellent players in the middle of the park. Tactically, they are very sound. In this match, every mistake will be punished," Dalić stated at a press conference in Toronto.

"This is a team that wants to dominate possession at all times. They have few weaknesses and can create danger at any moment," Zlatko Dalić added, commenting on the Portuguese squad.

The match in Toronto could also serve as a swansong for the most experienced players on both sides – Luka Modrić and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković offered a diplomatic assessment of the two legendary footballers: "There are two key players who have done a tremendous job. I am convinced that Luka will continue his journey forward. I can only speak positively about both of them."