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from IAN MURTAGH in RIJEKA minutes as Tottenham players, in a Europa League defeat at home to Greek side PAOK Salonika in November 2011.
If revenge for their heartbreaking semi-final defeat in Moscow will spur the Three Lions on tonight, Croatia have incentive themselves to follow up that 2-1 extra-time win with another victory on home soil.
There’s a feeling in the Croat camp that they weren’t taken seriously enough in England both before and after they beat Gareth Southgate’s men.
Lucky
And while both Modric and coach Zlatko Dalic insist they are not accusing Southgate and his players of underestimating them, they are determined to prove it was no lucky one-off.
“We felt a bit disrespected, not appreciated as much as we deserve,” said the 33-year-old.
“It wasn’t the players or the head coach but more in regards to the media and some commentary we could read or watch.
“It was extra motivation for our team, even in a World Cup semi-final when you don’t need extra motivation.
“You always need to respect your opponent, but also have self-belief in your team and your possibilities.”
Spain showed scant respect for the team beaten by France in the World Cup Final with a stunning 6-0 demolition of Dalic’s side, three days after beating England at Wembley.
Another loss tonight would make Croatia overwhelming favourites to finish bottom of the three-team group and be relegated from the Nations League’s highest level.
“This is an important game, especially after Spain,” said Modric.
“We want to feel better about ourselves. We’ll see if England are better than the World Cup.
“They have a lot of the same players but, with some injuries, some new ones too.”
The game is being played behind closed doors as punishment to Croatia from UEFA after a swastika was marked on their pitch before a Euro 2016 home qualifier against Italy.
“It will be tough,” added Modric. “It’s a strange environment for both teams, playing in front of an empty stadium, but it is important for us to achieve a good result.”