Croatia ready for England

Croatian Football Federation president Vlatko Markovic says his nation’s players are confident ahead of taking on England in today’s must-win match at the Stadium of Light in Lisbon.

The Croats, who will be on a flight back to Zagreb if they draw or lose, have taken heart from their impressive performance against reigning champions and favourites, France.

Only a late David Trezeguet goal salvaged a 2-2 draw for the French and now the Balkan side are taking on England without any sign of nerves.

Markovic said: “This match is a big occasion for England but our players do not feel under any pressure.

“The match is most important for England, not Croatia. We are a small country with just four million inhabitants – but England is a big country with many people. We also know we played England last year and were the better team.”

Despite suffering a 3-1 defeat in the Ipswich friendly, Croatia’s attacking zest caused the England back-line all manner of problems.