Luka Modric, the veteran Croatian midfielder, has been a central figure in some of England's most frustrating footballing moments over the past two decades. His history against the Three Lions dates back to a European Championship qualifier in Zagreb on 11th October 2006, a match Croatia won 2-0. This fixture is famously remembered for Gary Neville's backpass error that led to an own goal, with the film 'Borat's' promotional imagery coincidentally appearing on the advertising boards as the ball crossed the line. Modric, then an emerging talent, played the full 90 minutes, marking his 11th cap for his country and unknowingly ushering in an era of Croatian football defined by his presence.
Over the years, Modric has developed into the undisputed leader of the Croatian national team, not only through his exceptional skill but also his indomitable 'never-say-die' mentality. This resilience has been a hallmark of Croatia's performances in major tournaments, notably their ability to navigate numerous knockout rounds in the last two World Cups without always dominating in regular time. England has frequently found themselves on the receiving end of this Croatian spirit, facing Modric in eight subsequent matches since that initial 2006 encounter, with the midfielder only missing one due to injury – a 5-1 defeat to Fabio Capello's side in 2009.
Two of Modric's encounters with England stand out for their significant impact. The first was the infamous 'wally with a brolly' game at Wembley in November 2007. Croatia, already qualified for Euro 2008, defeated England 3-2, a result that prevented the Three Lions from qualifying for the tournament. This unexpected victory, under manager Slaven Bilic, significantly boosted Croatia's confidence and forged a psychological edge. Although Croatia performed well at Euro 2008, Modric, who had agreed to join Tottenham Hotspur from Dinamo Zagreb before the tournament, experienced a personal setback, missing a penalty in their quarter-final shootout loss to Turkey.
The second pivotal match occurred in the 2018 World Cup semi-final in Moscow. England had taken an early lead, but Modric, by then a highly decorated leader, orchestrated a Croatian comeback, securing a 2-1 extra-time victory that sent them to the final against France. This triumph solidified Modric's legendary status and highlighted his capacity to elevate his team on the biggest stage, under the guidance of manager Zlatko Dalic, who forged a strong connection with the midfielder. With nearly two decades having passed since his first encounter, Modric remains a constant in a Croatian squad that has seen numerous players come and go, a testament to his unique longevity and influence.
As Modric potentially gears up for another face-off against England in Dallas, the narrative of his career continues to intertwine with the Three Lions' aspirations. His ability to defy age and maintain world-class performance levels raises the question of whether he can deliver one more decisive blow to English hopes. The enduring presence of Modric serves as a reminder of the challenges England has faced from a small nation consistently punching above its weight on the international football stage.