Vuskovic shines: Starting debut and World Cup ticket secured | OneFootball

After his strong performances at HSV, Luka Vuskovic has once again been called up to the Croatian national team. There, he enjoyed his next major success.

Earlier in the week, the central defender spoke very positively about Hamburger SV: “I am satisfied with everything. The coaches support me, the teammates are great, and so are the fans. I have nothing negative to say.” A similar conclusion could likely be drawn about last Friday evening. Vuskovic played his second international match for Croatia’s senior team, and for the first time, he was in the starting lineup.

The 18-year-old directed the back three from the center—just as he does at HSV—in the crucial World Cup qualifier against the Faroe Islands. Alongside him were Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City) and Josip Stanisic (FC Bayern Munich), two players who have already followed a career path that seems mapped out for Vuskovic as well. He appeared unfazed by the special circumstances and delivered an almost flawless performance. Both in possession—with a pass completion rate of 90 percent—and in his core defensive duties of clearances and duels, he was convincing.

Vuskovic continues on to the U21s

Vuskovic only looked unlucky in a single incident. In the 16th minute, he deflected a shot from Geza Davi Turi, making it unstoppable for keeper Dominik Livakovic and resulting in a 0:1 deficit. However, Croatia then dominated the match against the cheeky underdogs. Gvardiol, who was mainly responsible for the deficit with a loss of possession at midfield, quickly equalized. In the second half, Petar Musa and substitute Nikola Vlasic secured the 3:1 victory with their goals, which also meant qualification for the final tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

As a result, players like superstar Luka Modric, Ivan Perisic, Gvardiol, or Andrej Kramaric—now considered a Hoffenheim veteran—can take it easier in Monday night’s away match in Montenegro. They may even be rested. For Vuskovic, however, the next tough test awaits. He will travel to join the U21s, coached by HSV icon Ivica Olic, who will play an important European Championship qualifier in Hungary on Tuesday evening.

Photo: IMAGO

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