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#2 Inspirational Croatia
Led by the Player of the Tournament Luka Modric, there was a strange and unfamiliar sense of determination and spirit to this Croatian side. Ably supported by classy players such as Ivan Rakitić, Ivan Perišić and Mario Mandžukić, Croatia had a midfield and attack to be envied.
With Modric play-making deep in almost a Pirlo-esque fashion, and all the other pieces dutifully falling into place, they were indeed a joy to watch. This World Cup will always be remembered for the grit and work ethic displayed by the Croats who have won the hearts of people worldwide.
One could observe their commitment and drive when Mandžukić forced an error out of Hugo Lloris at a time when the match was all but settled.
Fans and neutrals alike across the world have started affectionately backing and rooting for this barely 27 year old nation and this is a great moment for a country which is yet to find itself totally free from transitional complications.
As the Croatian slogan for this World Cup vocalizes, "Small Country, big dreams"
