Modrić scores as Bilić’s return starts with victory against Czechia
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Modrić and Bilić back together again
PRAGUE, 26 September 2026 – Croatia opened their new UEFA Nations League campaign with a 2-1 win against Czechia at Prague’s Fortuna Arena on Saturday night.
The match also marked the return of Slaven Bilić to the Croatia bench after 14 years.
Luka Modrić put Croatia ahead early in the second half before the hosts levelled seven minutes later through Adam Karabec. Croatia’s winner would come via the head of substitute Marco Pašalić.
Croatia enjoyed more possession early on and looked the more likely to break the deadlock. Petar Sučić came close before Josip Matanović also had a good opportunity.
After a scoreless first half, Croatia finally found the breakthrough two minutes after the restart through their 41-year-old captain.
Modrić would control the ball on the edge of the penalty area before charging forward finding the back of the net with a composed finish. You can see the goal here.
The goal took his international tally to 30 goals.
Czechia responded almost immediately.
In the 53rd minute, Karabec found space inside the box following a cross from the right and slotted home after a defensive error involving Josip Vušković and Joško Gvardiol.
Both teams continued to push for a winner, with Croatia enjoying more possession and registering more attempts as the match progressed.
Croatia then restored their lead in the 77th minute when Ivan Perišić delivered from the left and Marco Pašalić got in front of his marker to head home to make it 2-1-.
The hosts then appeared to have levelled again four minutes later, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for offside against Jan Hložek.
The win gives Croatia three points from their opening Nations League fixture.
Croatia were without Martin Baturina, who missed Friday’s training session because of health problems and was not included in the matchday squad.
The Vatreni now face a demanding schedule, with three more matches against world champions Spain and England.
Their next assignment comes on Tuesday when they travel to face Spain.
