Dalic: England opener can destroy everything

Zlatko Dalic isn't sugarcoating it. Your World Cup opener against England on 17 June could define the entire tournament. The Croatia boss admitted a softer first match might have been preferable for a squad dealing with form and fitness issues right now. Mateo Kovacic, Josko Gvardiol, and Luka Modric are all short of full sharpness, and Dalic knows England won't offer a gentle introduction. Quote from the man himself: that first game "can destroy everything" if Croatia aren't ready. (1)

Croatia beat Slovenia 2–1 in stoppage time

Sunday's final warm-up friendly delivered drama. Mario Pasalic scored in stoppage time to seal a 2–1 win over Slovenia at home, with Luka Modric also getting on the scoresheet in what may have been his last appearance on Croatian soil. Not everything was smooth – Slovenia equalised through Andraz Sporar and Benjamin Sesko looked dangerous throughout. But Croatia got the job done heading into the World Cup. (1) (2) (3)

Gvardiol plays full 90 and looks sharp

Josko Gvardiol went the distance at left-back and showed exactly why he's so important to this Croatia side. After a lengthy injury absence, his full 90-minute shift against Slovenia was a huge positive. If Gvardiol is match-fit by the time England rolls around, Croatia's defensive picture changes completely. (3)

Gvardiol wants out at Man City

Away from the national team, there's noise around Gvardiol's club future. Reports suggest he wants to leave Manchester City this summer following Pep Guardiola's departure, with the club entering a transition phase. Nothing is confirmed, but it's a situation to keep an eye on once the World Cup is done. (3)

Vušković open to Tottenham exit

Young defender Luka Vušković, currently on loan at Hamburger SV, is reportedly open to leaving Tottenham this summer. Bayern Munich are monitoring the situation. The 18-year-old is part of Croatia's World Cup setup and represents the next generation behind the Modric era. A move this summer could shape his development path significantly. (4)