Mourinho's message on Benfica star makes waves in international press | OneFootball

Franjo Ivanovic’s display, which saw him score his first brace in a Benfica shirt, against Moreirense was highlighted in the Croatian press. Hours after Benfica’s big win, local newspapers covered the striker’s 15 minutes on the pitch and also reported José Mourinho’s words regarding the 2026 World Cup.

After missing out on the call-up for Croatia’s friendlies, which took place in March, it seems that Ivanovic’s name is once again among the possible forwards to earn a place in the final squad for the World Cup, which will be announced on May 18.

As for his performance against Moreirense, Ivanovic received plenty of praise from the Croatian press. "Confidence and killer instinct", wrote the Nogometni Vijesti outlet about the number 9’s display against Moreirense. "15 minutes of top quality and he made the most of the opportunity in the best possible way", noted Rijeka Danas.

With the two goals scored against the cónegos, Ivanovic has been given a new lease of life at Benfica and can even dream of a possible place at the World Cup. However, the local press adds that, at this point, the Benfica striker will have to beat competition from two more compatriots for that spot: Petar Musa, who has already played for Benfica, and Igor Matanovic, Freiburg’s centre-forward.

This season, playing for Benfica, Franjo Ivanovic - valued at €18 million - has already made 40 official appearances: 23 in Liga Portugal Betclic, 11 in the Champions League, four in the Portuguese Cup, and two in the League Cup. .

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.