Croatia’s ambassador to Qatar Drago Lovric is hoping that his country’s national football team will script a new chapter in the history of the FIFA World Cup with a memorable performance this evening.
The East European country has had a terrific run in the 2018 World Cup and will play against France in the final at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow, today.
Speaking to Gulf Times yesterday, Lovric, who arrived in Qatar seven months ago as Croatia’s second ambassador, said: “Like any other Croat and many other ardent football fans elsewhere, my prayers are for the victory of our boys who have done so well in the championship so far. I am so happy with the encouraging words of support from many residents of Qatar, belonging to different nationalities. This shows that the Croatian footballers have massive support among sports lovers everywhere,” said Lovric, former chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces.
Lovric has also officiated as Croatia’s representative to Nato’s Military Committee (2007-2011).
“It seems many young people in their twenties and teens did not expect Croatia to perform so well this time unlike those who have been watching our consistent games for more than two decades, especially our third-place finish in 1998 in France. This time, we are so happy that our team has surpassed the performance of even the 1998 team. Yet, it is important to note that we are still a young, independent country of just about 27 years,” he said.
The envoy also spoke about his country’s population, which is a little over 4mn.
“Also, one may take into consideration our small population. After the 1950 World Cup final when Uruguay won the event, it is the first time that a country with such a small population as Croatia’s is playing in the final.”
He noted that Croatia is enjoying a great deal of attention around the world. “This is in a way helpful for us as it will boost our economy, particularly tourism,” he said, seeking further co-operation with Qatar in different areas, especially sports. “We hope that with our rich experience and record in football, the Croatian Football Federation will partner with Qatar in the run-up to the next FIFA World Cup to be held here,” said Lovric.
Speaking on his recent experiences, especially at the fan zones, Lovric said he was overwhelmed by the support Croatia received from their first match at the World Cup.
“I’m grateful to the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy and Qatar Tourism Authority for helping a large number of sports lovers watch and keenly follow the World Cup from the beginning. The flawless hosting of these fan zones and the large presence of soccer enthusiasts show that Qatar is more than ready to organise big events such as the FIFA World Cup.”
Croatian ambassador Drago Lovric in Doha. PICTURE: Jayan Orma
