Ivan Perisic has represented Croatia for 21 years, but his passion for his country burns hotter than ever.
“I feel deep pride in being able to represent Croatia and inspire the younger generation who dream of the same path.” sky sports Just won the Eredivisie with PSV ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
This will be his eighth major tournament and fourth World Cup with the senior national team. The 37-year-old, who first donned the famous red and white checked shirt for the U17 team in 2005, has experienced some incredible moments on the biggest stage.
Perisic showed groundbreaking talent in 2014, scoring two goals in three games. Four years later, he scored one goal and set up another as Croatia beat England in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. He then scored an equalizer against France in the final, but Croatia ended up losing 4–2.
Ivan Perisic scores against France in the 2018 World Cup final
At the 2022 World Cup, he became Croatia’s top scorer at a major tournament, scoring in the round of 16 before losing to eventual winners Argentina in the semifinals. Thanks to Perisic’s assist, the 3rd place playoff victory was confirmed.
“It’s hard to choose just one moment.” Perisic said, recalling those difficult World Cup days. “The entire 2018 World Cup was unforgettable.
“Getting to the final stands out the most. Even though we didn’t win, it was a historic achievement for Croatia and a moment that brought the whole country together.
“That feeling, and the connection we shared with the people back home, will stay with me forever, especially right now.”
Coming off a third-place finish at the first World Cup in 1998, second and third place are outrageous achievements for a country with a population of just 3.8 million. What’s the secret?
“Croatia may be a small country, but we have shown that we can compete on the biggest stages with passion, unity and commitment,” said Perisic, who has 152 caps.
It is a country blessed with talented athletes. Luka Modric and Josko Gvardiol are among the other stars lined up for them in North America this summer. However, the sense of purpose the players feel while wearing the shirt also appears to be strong.
Regarding participating in the World Cup, Perisic said, “I always feel great excitement but also a sense of responsibility.”
“You embody the pride and emotion of an entire nation. It evokes feelings of gratitude rather than pressure. I often reflect on our journey and what it means to us as a country to stand on the world stage in a Croatia shirt. That feeling never loses its significance.”
“Every World Cup feels special. No matter how many times you participate, you never fully get used to the scale or significance of it.”
The Croatia national team wearing clothing from Mackage, the national team’s official off-field clothing company.
England’s special opening match
This starts with particularly important fixtures. The match between England and Croatia will be held in Texas on June 17th.
The two teams’ recent story spans from the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, through England’s Nations League revenge later that year, to England’s opening match win at Wembley at Euro 2020.
Ivan Perisic scores for England against Croatia in the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup
Perisic has been at the heart of the competition, making 50 appearances for Tottenham between 2022 and 2024, adding a sense of connection, excitement and motivation to the game.
Asked if playing against England would have any additional significance, he said: “Definitely yes.”
“Playing in the Premier League has given me a real appreciation for the intensity, quality and culture of English football.
“Every time we play England, there is a lot of mutual respect, especially after such important games over the past few years.
“It’s always an interesting game to be a part of and I’m really looking forward to what’s to come.”
Mackage is the official off-field equipment supplier of the Croatia national team.
