We will beat France... history is there to be demolished’

and motivation. What we hope to see is four million people out in the streets celebrating.”

Dalic took over from Ante Cacic last October with Croatia’s chances of qualification hanging by a thread.

Two days later he masterminded a 2-0 victory in Ukraine that took the team into a play-off against Greece that was won 4-1 on aggregate.

That earned him a two-year contract worth less than £1million – making him one of the lowest paid coaches at the World Cup.

Croatia topped their group and demonstrated their resolve by beating Denmark and hosts Russia on penalties, then broke English hearts. They have not beaten France in five previous attempts, but Dalic said: “I don’t set much store in statistics, traditions or head-to-head results. History is there to be made and then to be demolished. “If we win then no one will have won the World Cup with more pride. It will be a celebration to beat the celebrations of Brazil and Argentina. “But if we don’t win, then we will congratulate our opponent and we will be dignified.” France have trailed for just nine minutes and 12 seconds in Russia, while Croatia have been behind in all three of their knockout matches.