Veteran defender Dejan Lovren acknowledges Brazil’s favoritism in Qatar 2022 quarterfinal matchupbut he said that is not a problem for the Croatian team, which often plays against rivals who in principle have such a condition.
“Brazil are favourites. It has two strong teams, of individual quality, that can change the pace of the game. We have no problem if they are the favorites. We respect everyone and that’s how it’s always been,” said the Croatian footballer.
The Zenit St. Petersburg footballer indicated that they should know everything: “The eleven players playing have to be focused. They are a very dangerous opponent, unbelievable but we also have options and we are ready for the match.”
Lovren, 33, fixed at the back ‘vatreni’, Brazilian celebrations are not considered disrespectful. “They can do what they want. I don’t see any disrespect. They were born and live in music, I know how they are and I don’t see anything wrong with that, although everything has a limit,” he said.
Dejan Lovren shares the center of the Croatian defense Josko Guardiol, one of the revelations of the World Cup. Both played ninety minutes of all games. “I’m a veteran now, I was young, I followed in the footsteps of the elders, watched what they did and learned. They were definitely more energetic than me. I often talk to Josko and try to give him positive advice. He listens and accepts it and he is better than I was when I was in my twenties. It is of great quality. It is unusual for all major clubs to be interested in him. I hope in fifteen years he will remember that one day I gave him advice,” he said.
Lovren is happy with the role Croatia have played so far. “I’m happy with my team and that’s the first thing. I don’t look at the critics. I’m my biggest critic. Nobody has to explain to me if I’m playing well or badly. It’s important that the team is healthy and happy at that time,” he said.
The Croatian central defender has doubts about reaching Qatar 2022. After the match against Russia last year he was injured. “I was disappointed. I couldn’t stop because I wanted to be here to give my all. I succeeded, I fought against myself. It’s hard mentally but I’m still thinking about coming back,” said Lovren, who got into the World Cup at the right time and is now on the doorstep of the semifinals.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
