Vuskovic self-critical after World Cup bow: “Better at corners” | OneFootball

Luka Vuskovic was named directly in the starting lineup for Croatia’s World Cup opener against England and was involved in several key moments.

He set up the temporary 1-1 equalizer by Martin Baturina with a ball win in the opposition half, but just a few minutes later he missed a corner, allowing Harry Kane to head home and restore the lead for the Three Lions. England then prevailed 4-2 after a very dominant second half. For Vuskovic, who once again operated as the central figure in the back three, it was over after 66 minutes, also due to a tactical switch.

Afterward, he gave a mixed assessment: “There were some good moments, but also many bad ones.” The center-back, who had been especially hard to beat in aerial duels during the recently concluded Bundesliga season, added self-critically: “I think I could have reacted better on the corners, but that’s just how it is.” He did not want to use John Stones’ slight block before the 1-2 as an excuse: “He pushed me? Was that it? I don’t remember, I need to look at it again.”

Photo: IMAGO

Vuskovic’s future will only be decided after the World Cup

In addition, Nico O’Rilley got away from him before a big England chance. In general, the super talent, who for a 19-year-old usually plays with great composure but has so far had little experience at such a high level, had to learn some tough lessons in one or two situations. That was also the case for the 2-3, when he decided not to engage in a foot race with eventual scorer Jude Bellingham. Still, Vuskovic did not want to let his head drop: “My teammates encouraged me. Keep your head up! After all, we lost to a top team.”

And despite the early substitution, there was no real reason for that. The super talent did not have a poor game, as he once again showed his usual strength in duels and impressed with no fewer than five clearances around his own penalty area. He is expected to get his next chance to show what he can do on Tuesday night against underdogs Panama.

Nur die Raute – by HSV fans for HSV fans

Convincing performances in the upcoming matches could have a major impact on Vuskovic’s future. Although he will return to Tottenham from HSV after his loan expires, staying there is not guaranteed despite his contract running until 2030. Recent reports said there had been an agreement between the player’s camp and Premier League side Brighton.

Photo: IMAGO

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