Bilic: Norway like Ireland

Croatia coach Slaven Bilic, inset, believes today’s friendly against Norway will be perfect final preparation for next week’s Group C opener against Ireland on Sunday week.

He said: “We couldn’t have a better warm-up for the opening match against Ireland. Norway are something like Ireland, they’re two teams very similar in their style of play and team ability. The match in Oslo will show us where we are, a week before our first match. I believe I will get my answers. The result is always important and a victory here would bring a better atmosphere and confidence to the team.”