Originally Posted by
Brin
This is a tasty tie with old twinkle toes Luca Modric playing his possible last appearances for Croatia. An amazing career. He seems to defy age and doesn't look any older from 10 years ago. Brilliant athlete.
The Real Madrid midfielder, 38, is expected to lead his country in their opening group game against Spain in Berlin on Saturday almost two decades after making his major tournament bow for Croatia at the 2006 World Cup.
"After so many years, here I am still, and I'm happy to be here," said the six-time Champions League winner with Real.
Croatia, World Cup finalists in 2018, are not among the favourites in Germany but Modric said that did not bother him.
"Being the dark horses, we don't mind about that," added Modric, who is set to become the first Croatian player to feature at five different editions of the European Championship. "Everyone else being the favourites, us being the dark horses, we're used to that."
Spain are looking to secure a record fourth European Championship after successes in 1964, 2008 and 2012.
Spain are down as the favourites but don't hold your breath on this one!