First came a delightful ball from the left flank, perfectly placed for an aerial strike by the forward in the center. Then, a fierce volley that Maignan stood no chance against: once more, Croatia found itself basking in the brilliance of Ivan Perisic. It was a night to remember for the Croatians, going toe-to-toe with perennial rivals France— the same side that had experienced their past heartbreak in the 2018 World Cup final, set against a backdrop whose history is often debated.
This remarkable success unfolded rapidly. Just two years ago, the former Inter player was back at Hajduk Split, his boyhood club, struggling to make an impression. However, come summer, Perisic made the bold choice to take up an offer from PSV, parting ways with Hajduk amid an apparent rift with new coach Gennaro Gattuso. Thus, when Croatia faced France in Split last Wednesday, the crowd began to jeer him. But gratitude soon replaced that discontent as he provided an assist and netted a goal, reminding everyone that some performances only deserve applause.
It had been since the 2022 World Cup round of 16 against Japan that Perisic last found the net for Croatia, where he stands second overall in caps and goals (141 appearances and 34 goals). Some skeptics hinted at a swan song for the player as he ventured past 35, fearing age would catch up with a winger reliant on pace and agility. Yet, newfound inspiration awaited him in the Netherlands. This glorious season has already seen him tally ten goals and eleven assists across club and national duty—three goals in the last three matches alone, significantly contributing to the elimination of Juventus from the Champions League.
Perisic, evergreen alongside Modric and under the guidance of Zlatko Dalic, remains pivotal. “I’ve never doubted him,” said the Croatian head coach, steadfast in his inclusion even during Perisic’s club downturn. “I took responsibility for always calling him up, and he’s proved on the pitch he warrants it: the national team gives him strength, and Ivan deserves all our support and congratulations. Only professionals like him can perform at this level at 36, one of the most vital players during my tenure.”
Indeed, Croatia struggles to lower its flag, and it would almost be shocking otherwise. Under Dalic and Perisic, the national side has secured a second and third place in World Cups, in addition to reaching a Nations League final— with hopes still alive in the current edition. They’ve surpassed any achievements from their relatively short history, aside from the bronze in France ’98. As long as Perisic and veterans continue to lead the charge, there’s little more to say: rising for a standing ovation became the order of the day as Split showered him with appreciation after his magnificent display against the French, leaving the past grievances in the shadows.
Resource: https://www.rivistaundici.com/2025/03/21/perisic-croazia-francia-nations-league/
