After the big win, Mateo Kovacic shared who his most important supporter is

Luka Modrić celebrated Croatia's advancement through the group stage with a special social media post, igniting national pride and sparking widespread admiration among fans. The midfielder, who turned 40 years and 291 days old during the World Cup 2026 campaign, made history by becoming the oldest player ever to record an assist at a World Cup. His contribution came in the form of a corner kick that led to Nikola Vlašić’s winning goal against Ghana, securing Croatia’s place in the knockout rounds. Modrić shared a brief yet powerful message on Instagram expressing his pride in the team and readiness for the next phase of the tournament. His post received over 200,000 likes and hundreds of comments, underscoring the immense respect he commands within Croatian football and beyond. The match against Ghana was a pivotal moment for Croatia, ensuring their progression into the round of 16. Despite being the elder statesman of the squad, Modrić remained central to the team’s success, showcasing his enduring skill and leadership. His performance included 102 touches and 82 accurate passes, a testament to his ability to control games even at an advanced age. This achievement added to his already storied career, which includes 200 caps for the national team, making him the fourth player in history to reach that milestone. Modrić’s influence extends far beyond statistics. His Instagram post captured the celebratory moments following the victory, highlighting the passion with which he continues to lead Croatia on its fifth World Cup appearance. Fans and fellow players alike praised his contributions, with renowned sports journalist Fabrizio Romano labeling him “a legend.” The emotional resonance of Modrić’s message reflected both personal pride and collective hope for Croatia’s continued success in the tournament. In a separate but equally touching display of emotion, Mateo Kovačić shared a heartfelt moment with his daughter after Croatia’s crucial win over Ghana. The 32-year-old midfielder posted a video showing him holding his young daughter, Luna, close on the nearly empty stadium field. The clip, described as “a special night made even more special,” highlighted the personal side of professional sports. Kovačić’s daughter, dressed in a miniature Croatia jersey with the family name “Kovačić” and number eight, became the center of attention for many viewers. The intimate scene resonated deeply with fans worldwide, receiving numerous supportive comments in Croatian such as “Ahhhh, tatin anđeo” (“Ah, daddy’s angel”) and “Tatina princeza” (“Daddy’s princess”). Kovačić, known for emphasizing the importance of family alongside his career, has often spoken about how his loved ones provide motivation and strength. This particular moment underscored that sentiment, illustrating how personal connections can fuel professional achievements. His wife, Izabela, and older son, Ivan, have frequently been seen supporting him publicly, reinforcing the idea that family plays a vital role in the lives of athletes. Croatia’s journey through the group stage was marked by resilience and teamwork. The victory over Ghana secured them second place in Group L, setting up a challenging quarterfinal clash against Portugal. For Modrić, this represents another opportunity to guide Croatia toward new heights, building upon previous successes including silver in 2018 and bronze in 2022. As the team prepares for the next phase, the legacy of players like Modrić and Kovačić continues to inspire both current and future generations of Croatian footballers. Modrić’s historic assist and Kovačić’s emotional tribute reflect the multifaceted nature of international football. While the sport demands physical and mental endurance, it also allows for deeply human moments that connect players with their families and supporters. These instances highlight the broader narrative of the World Cup, where athletic prowess intertwines with personal stories and communal celebration. As Croatia moves forward, these moments will remain etched in the memories of fans around the world.