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Zlatko Dalic Resigns After Nine Years, Croatia's World Cup Success

7/9/2026

Summary

Zlatko Dalic Resigns

Zlatko Dalic stepped down as Croatia’s national team head coach after nearly nine years in charge.
He had taken the role in 2017.
Croatia were 2018 World Cup runners-up, finished third at the 2022 World Cup, and reached the 2023 UEFA Nations League final.
The Croatian Football Federation announced the resignation on Wednesday via CroatiaFooty’s X page and said it will begin appointing a new head coach.

Summary

Dalic Resigns

Zlatko Dalic posted his resignation statement on the Croatian Football Federation’s Instagram account.
He said a wave of public support after the 2-1 round-of-32 loss to Portugal made him briefly reconsider leaving before confirming his decision.
The federation announced his departure on its X account less than a week after the defeat, calling his tenure an “unforgettable journey.”

Summary

Dalic Responds

Dalic said semi-automated technology ruled Igor Matanovic offside, nullifying a potential extra-time goal in the Portugal defeat.
He thanked President Zdravko Kustic for support and praised the federation’s doctors, physiotherapists, economists and logistics staff for their role.
He noted that 40-year-old captain Luka Modric will play his final major tournament for Croatia.
The Croatian Football Federation has not yet named a successor, indicating the coach-search process will begin soon.

Summary

Dalic Blames Officials

Croatia finished second in Group L at the 2026 World Cup after a 4-2 loss to England, a 1-0 win over Panama and a victory over Ghana.
Dalic blamed the Portugal exit on officiating, citing a VAR-awarded penalty and a late offside that cancelled Josko Gvardiol’s equaliser.
Dalic coached Croatia in 111 matches, winning 62, during a nine-year tenure.
Before the national role Dalic managed Saudi club Al-Hilal and UAE side Al-Ain.

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Zlatko Dalic Resigns

Zlatko Dalic stepped down as Croatia’s national team head coach after nearly nine years in charge.
He had taken the role in 2017.
Croatia were 2018 World Cup runners-up, finished third at the 2022 World Cup, and reached the 2023 UEFA Nations League final.
The Croatian Football Federation announced the resignation on Wednesday via CroatiaFooty’s X page and said it will begin appointing a new head coach.

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