Bilic Blasts Croatia’s Lack of Fight After Spain Defeat
Croatia’s rebuilding campaign suffered a heavy setback in Seville as Slaven Bilic condemned his side’s lack of aggression and defensive control in defeat to Spain.
Why the result matters
The loss leaves Croatia under immediate pressure in their qualifying group, with England next on Saturday and Spain already establishing a three-point advantage at the summit. Bilic accepted that his team is still taking shape, but made clear that transition could not excuse a display he felt fell below Croatia’s usual competitive standards.
| Group picture | Points |
|---|---|
| Spain | 6 |
| Croatia | 3 |
| England | 3 |
Spain struck in the opening minute, leaving Croatia to recover against the world champions in Seville. Croatia did find an equaliser, briefly restoring belief, but Bilic identified the response to that moment as decisive. Rather than disrupting Spain with composure and discipline, his side conceded again from a set piece.
Bilic said it had been a difficult evening and that Croatia were below standard across the pitch. He acknowledged the scale of the occasion, Spain’s status and the relative newness of his selection, yet insisted his players could not approach the match as spectators at a Spanish celebration.
The coach’s principal concern was the defensive display. Croatia’s back line struggled with Spain’s movement and sustained pressure, while the team failed to maintain its organisation at important moments. Bilic said the defence did not function adequately and argued that a side with Croatia’s footballing record must show greater resistance.
There were limited encouraging elements in possession. Bilic felt Croatia occasionally played through Spain’s press through Mateo Kovacic and Ivan Perisic, while he singled out Dion Beljo for a positive individual contribution beyond his goal.
Bilic demands more from his new group
The former West Ham manager believes the players selected possess the technical attributes required for this level, but said those qualities were scarcely visible in Seville. For Bilic, the difference between the teams extended beyond the result, encompassing their execution, intensity and mindset.
He maintained that the squad had been assembled with purpose, but said a team that looks capable on paper must produce far more once the match begins.
England fixture becomes pivotal
Croatia now meet England on Saturday with both nations on three points. Victory would move Bilic’s team ahead of England and restore momentum before the return meeting with Spain next Tuesday.
Spain host Czechia on Saturday before travelling to Croatia, meaning the weekend’s matches could significantly shape the contest for qualification behind the group leaders.
