Croatia’s Veteran Ivan Perisic Chases More World Cup Magic in Showdown with England

Ivan Perisic has represented Croatia for 21 years, yet his passion for the national team burns as brightly as ever. “I feel a deep pride in representing Croatia and hopefully inspiring younger generations who dream of following the same path,” he tells Sky Sports ahead of this summer’s World Cup, following his recent Eredivisie triumph with PSV.

The 37-year-old will represent Croatia for a seventh major tournament and fourth World Cup this summer. Having first worn the famous red and white checkered shirt with the U17 team in 2005, Perisic has accumulated some unforgettable moments across the biggest stages.

His breakout performance came in 2014 with two goals in three matches. In 2018, he scored one and assisted another during Croatia’s memorable semi-final victory over England before leveling against France in the final, despite ultimately losing 4-2.

At the 2022 World Cup, Perisic became Croatia’s top scorer in major tournaments, finding the net in the round of 16 before assisting in the third-place victory over Argentina.

“It’s difficult to choose just one moment,” Perisic reflects on those dramatic World Cup days. “The entire 2018 campaign was unforgettable. Reaching the final stands out the most – even though we didn’t win, it was a historic achievement for Croatia and a moment that united the entire country. That feeling, and the connection we shared with the people back home, is something I’ll carry forever, especially right now.”

With third-place finishes in both 1998 and 2018, Croatia has consistently punched above its weight as a nation of just 3.8 million people. “Croatia may be a small country, but we’ve shown that with passion, unity, and commitment, you can compete on the biggest stage,” Perisic notes, approaching 150 caps.

The squad boasts world-class talent including Luka Modric and Josko Gvardiol, but there’s an intangible team spirit that defines them. “There’s always a huge sense of excitement, but also responsibility,” Perisic explains about World Cup participation. “You carry the pride and emotions of an entire nation. More than pressure, it brings gratitude. I often reflect on our journey as a country and what it means to stand on the world stage wearing the Croatian shirt – that feeling never loses its importance.”

Every World Cup, he emphasizes, “feels special. No matter how many you play in, you never fully get used to the scale of it or what it represents.”

A special England opener

This summer’s tournament begins with a pivotal fixture – Croatia versus England on June 17 in Texas. The two nations have a compelling recent history: Croatia’s 2018 World Cup semi-final victory, England’s Nations League revenge later that year, and the Three Lions’ opening-day win at Wembley during Euro 2020.

Having made 50 appearances for Tottenham between 2022-24, Perisic brings added connection, excitement, and motivation to the fixture. “Definitely,” he confirms when asked if facing England holds extra meaning. “Playing in the Premier League gave me a real appreciation for the intensity, quality, and culture of English football. There’s a lot of mutual respect whenever we face England, especially after some important matches over the years. Those are always exciting games to be part of, and I’m really looking forward to this upcoming one.”
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