Dani Olmo Urges Spain Caution Ahead of Croatia Nations League Clash
Spain will take a perfect record into Split but Dani Olmo has urged his side not to underestimate a Croatia team desperate for a response at the Poljud Stadium.
La Roja have won each of their first three UEFA Nations League matches in Group A3, including a 4-1 victory over Croatia in the earlier meeting. Another positive result would strengthen Spain’s hold on first place before the November international window.
Croatia, however, arrive under severe pressure after England inflicted a 7-0 home defeat, described as the heaviest loss in the nation’s football history. Slaven Bilic’s team have conceded 11 goals across successive defeats, and Olmo expects the hosts to draw energy from a packed and demanding Split crowd.
Olmo expects Croatia response
The 28-year-old said Spain had been taken aback by Croatia’s result against England, but stressed that it does not change his assessment of the opposition.
“I think Croatia will be more dangerous,” Olmo said. “They did not have an easy game last time, and it will be difficult for us with their supporters behind them.
“We were surprised by the result, but we will see their reaction tomorrow. We have faced them many times and know how strong they are. They have very good players. We need to concentrate on ourselves and the way we play.”
For Croatia, the meeting with the world champions offers an immediate opportunity to recover pride in front of their own supporters. The contest is likely to shape the direction of Group A3 heading into the final set of fixtures.
A return to Croatia for Olmo
The trip has particular meaning for Olmo, who moved to Dinamo Zagreb at 16 and began his senior career in Croatia. Fluent in Croatian, the Barcelona attacking midfielder spent his formative professional years in Zagreb after leaving Spain with his mother.
Olmo said Dinamo’s commitment to his development convinced him to make the move at a young age.
“Everybody has their own journey and their own reasons,” he said. “Dinamo showed interest and wanted to help me develop, so I believed in that. It became one of the best decisions of my career. Moving to another country, with another language, was difficult, but it was also a beautiful experience.”
Although the match will be played in Split rather than Zagreb, Olmo said he was pleased to return to a country he feels played a major part in his career. Members of his family and friends are expected to attend.
“Croatia gave me almost everything I have,” he said. “It is a special feeling to come back. I am very happy, and I am looking forward to seeing family and friends.”
Poljud atmosphere
Olmo also acknowledged the challenge posed by Hajduk Split’s Poljud Stadium, a ground known for an intense home atmosphere. He said the support can drive Croatia on, while also making the occasion one players should embrace.
“The atmosphere is very heated,” Olmo said. “The fans put pressure on you and strongly support their team. It is a beautiful match to play in, and that feeling gives you additional motivation. I have good memories of playing there and great respect for Hajduk.”
