Modric: It’s not only about me and Eriksen
Luka Modric insists his midfield battle with Christian Eriksen will be just a sub- plot when Croatia and Denmark clash for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
The Tottenham playmakers past and present have important roles for their national sides, with Modric outstanding for Croatia so far at Russia 2018 and Eriksen Denmark’s main attacking threat.
Focus has fallen on how they will get on in Nizhny Novgorod, with their rivalry widely portrayed as being crucial to how this evening’s game will unfold.
Asked about Eriksen, Modric said: “I don’t like to compare players, particularly to compare others with myself.
“What I can say about Eriksen is he’s a fantastic player, a world- class player. He’s had a fantastic season at Tottenham.
“He’s the most important player for Denmark.
“What will decide the game will be how the teams perform as teams. No individual can do it on their own. Individuals can dictate certain incidents, but the most important thing is how we perform as a team on the pitch.” Croatia have not gone past the World Cup group stage since 1998, when they were semi- finalists in France and only edged out by the hosts.
“It will be a stern test for us,” Modric said. “It is high time this generation cleared this obstacle. I expect us to be capable of doing that.” Denmark manager Age Hareide is aware his side can become just the second side in Danish history to make the last eight of the tournament.
They are in fine form, too, riding an 18-game unbeaten wave. However, some critics have accused them of being too defensive, and the manager knows they need to offer new solutions against Croatia.
“I think we are writing Danish history anyway,” he said.
“But I am not thinking so much about that.
“I am thinking of our team being able to play in different ways.
“We have many good players, but we have a team which is what has taken us so far. We know Croatia have a good team, skilful players, but you will see a different Denmark from what you have seen so far.
“The type of game we will play will be different, we need to play differently to progress.”