Pasalic Fires Croatia Past Czechia in Bilic’s Winning Return
Marco Pasalic struck the decisive second-half goal as Croatia opened their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 2-1 win over Czechia in Prague, handing returning coach Slaven Bilic a victorious first match back in charge.
Croatia’s midfield control delivers Prague win
Luka Modric put Croatia ahead with an outstanding finish before Pasalic converted from inside the area to restore the visitors’ advantage and secure all three points. Czechia pulled one back, but Croatia’s command in midfield proved decisive as Bilic’s team saw out the contest.
The result marked a successful return to the national-team dugout for Bilic, 14 years after his previous spell as Croatia manager came to an end. Mateo Kovacic said the players had quickly responded to the new coach’s ideas, while also recognising the work of former boss Zlatko Dalic.
“I first want to thank Zlatko Dalic for everything,” Kovacic said. “With Bilic, it all came together straight away and the group is working as one.”
Match timeline
- Modric broke the deadlock with a high-quality strike for Croatia.
- Czechia responded to keep the match competitive in Prague.
- Pasalic finished from close range in the second half to win it 2-1.
- Bilic completed his first game of his new Croatia spell with three Nations League points.
Modric remains Croatia’s reference point
Pasalic reserved special praise for captain Modric after the match, saying the veteran continues to set the standard whenever he is on the pitch.
“Luka’s first goal was excellent and I am very happy for him,” Pasalic said. “He shows that age is only a number. He changes games on the pitch and he is a true legend.”
Pasalic’s own goal gave Croatia an early boost in the group, while his performance also underlined the depth available around Modric and Kovacic in Bilic’s midfield.
What happens next
Croatia travel to Seville on Tuesday to face world champions Spain, with Bilic’s side aiming to build on their opening victory and strengthen their position at the top of the Nations League group.
Czechia, meanwhile, remain in Prague to host England on the same evening. New manager Santi Denia began his tenure with defeat and called on his players to respond in their next fixture.
Key takeaways
- Pasalic’s second-half finish settled a 2-1 Croatia victory in Prague.
- Modric opened the scoring and earned strong praise from his match-winning teammate.
- Bilic’s return began with a win, 14 years after his first Croatia spell ended.
- Kovacic said the squad had immediately embraced Bilic’s tactical approach.
- Croatia next face Spain in Seville, while Czechia meet England at home.
