UEFA Nations League 2018, England 2-1 Croatia: 5 Talking Points 

England came out on top in the second competitive replay of the World Cup semi-finals and was the deserved victor on the night
England came out on top in the second competitive replay of the World Cup semi-finals and was the deserved victor on the night

#4 Croatia really need a Mandzukic replacement

Mario Mandzukic had been the focal point of Croatia's attack for a very long time, and his retirement has caused a lot of confusion as to who is the ideal man to lead Croatia's frontline
Mario Mandzukic had been the focal point of Croatia's attack for a very long time, and his retirement has caused a lot of confusion as to who is the ideal man to lead Croatia's frontline

Mario Mandzukic is one of the most dedicated, hardworking and tactically astute attackers in World Football. He never seems to run out of batteries and leaves his heart and soul everytime he steps out on the pitch.

He was the focal point for Croatia's attack for more than half a decade now, and his retirement after the World Cup final heartbreak has been causing quite the headaches for his international teammates and coach Zlatko Dalic, who has had a torrid time trying to replace the irreplaceable Juventus attacker.

Andre Kramaric has done an okay job of filling in for him so far, but cannot contribute to games the same way the 32-year-old did, as Kramaric doesn't possess the work rate or the tactical nous that his senior possessed.

Mandzukic is a one of a kind player, and his presence has been sorely missed up top by his nation, who just haven't looked as dangerous as they used to in attack.

They also lost their first line of defence, as the former Munich man was often the first one to start pressing the opposition as soon as his side loses possession. Come back Mario..

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