Bilic hopes to answer nation's prayers

KLAGENFURT, Austria: Croatia coach Slaven Bilic thanked the Croat people for praying for his side on Sunday and expressed his hope that the Croatian team would answer them.

Croatia has already assured itself of topping the Euro 2008 Group B table after victories over co-host Austria and Germany and it takes on Poland in its final first-round match on Monday.

On Sunday the Croatians received a visit from Roman Catholic priest Zlatko Sudac, who even at 27 is one of the most popular of his vocation in the Balkan state, where they were informed that the nation almost to a person was praying for them.

"We had a visit from Reverend Sudac, as we had agreed with him this afternoon (Sunday)," said 39-year-old Bilic, who has professed his belief that his youngish side can go the whole way.

"He spent the whole of the afternoon with us. He spoke to the players individually, well those that wanted to see him, and afterward he celebrated a Mass in the chapel near the hotel.

"What Reverend Sudac did for us today is a real honor.

"I would like to thank all of those who who prayed for us, which gives us a lot of courage. We appreciate the support and prayers of so many Croatian people."

Bilic, who was an outstanding player and was part of the side that reached the 1998 World Cup semifinals where it lost to eventual champion France, was dismissive about the idea that the Poles would run over his second-string side.

He had already stated that he would not play those who were on a booking and several who were tired.

"But this is not a team of reserves," insisted Bilic, who guided Croatia to a remarkable victory over England at Wembley in the decisive qualifier last year.

"We have brought 23 players to Austria and none of them considered reservists. All have come here with the intention of playing at Euro.

"Others have had the opportunity to play earlier than others.

"But all the players are ready and those who will play on Monday will have the opportunity to show what qualities they have.

"I have no doubt of the value of the Croat side that will play against Poland; and I consider Poland as a very good side."

Bilic, who nipped off for a quick cigarette when the referee blew for full-time in the famous 2-1 win over the Germans last week, was left a little nonplussed by a question as to whether his second-choice side would be able to cope with Poland's Brazilian-born striker Roger Guerreiro, who was only granted citizenship in March and scored his first goal for his adopted country against Austria last week.

"Our opponents are strong, but we are highly motivated, our goal is to continue to play well and to get the results.

"Guerreiro is a very good player, but I don't really understand the question. Of course my team will be able to cope with him."

Even if Poland was to win the result would be meaningless should Germany get even a point from its match with Austria, while the Austrians also hold a slight advantage over the Poles should both of them win.

AFP

(China Daily 06/17/2008 page22)