Croatians went to polls Sunday to choose a government to navigate the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in a general election campaign that has been dominated by the health crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polish-president-speaks-out-against-same-sex-couple-adoptions-310754" hreflang="en">Polish president speaks out against same-sex couple adoptions</a>

The pandemic has put the European Union country's tourism-dependent economy on course for a contraction of nearly 10 percent -- its steepest decline in decades.

The ruling conservative HDZ party has been touting its relative success in containing Croatia's outbreak thus far, with an official tally of roughly 100 deaths and 3,000 infections.

But a rise of cases in recent weeks, with dozens recorded daily, has renewed fears over the health situation and given the opposition fresh ammunition.

"Everyone is scared about what will happen in autumn," Vesna Trnokop, a 60-year-old economist from Zagreb, told AFP.

"The coronavirus has changed economies, not only in Croatia, everywhere, so we should change our ideas."

Polling stations across the Adriatic country opened at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and will close 12 hours later.

HDZ is set for a close race with the main centre-left opposition and also risks losing votes to a new right-wing movement gunning for third place.

Neither of the two main contenders -- Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic's HDZ or the 'Restart' coalition led by the Social Democrats (SDP) -- are expected to win an outright majority in the 151-seat assembly, surveys show.

That leaves the populist 'Homeland Movement' of folk singer-turned-politician Miroslav Skoro, a potentially key coalition partner.

Opposition leader and prime minister candidate Davor Bernardic has accused the government of "consciously pushing Croatia into a risk" by deciding to go ahead with the election in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

His party cancelled electoral rallies over health concerns while voters have been asked to wear masks and bring their own pens. &nbsp;

Plenkovic, meanwhile, is hoping the uncertain future will inspire voters to stick with HDZ, in power since 2016.

Now is the&nbsp;time for "serious choices and not for political quackery", said the former MEP with strong backing from Brussels, who has dismissed his rivals as ill-prepared.

"Croatia doesn't have time for experiments like Bernardic or Skoro," he told AFP.

Petar Dragic, a taxi driver from Zagreb, agreed with the prime minister and said he would vote for HDZ.

"I'm pragmatic, don't care who is left or right. Only Plenkovic is capable of pulling funds from Brussels and this is what we need now," he told AFP referring to both the pandemic and looming economic crisis.

Yet some Croatians are hungry for new faces in a country struggling with massive emigration driven by low salaries and corruption at home.

"A lot needs to be changed," said retired teacher Branka Tekavec.

"There is not enough focus on Croatians leaving for abroad, unemployment and poor salaries of young people."

The government's rivals are also seizing on recent graft scandals that have rocked the party, with Bernardic calling for a "new start" instead of HDZ's "path of corruption".

In his final address ahead of the vote, right-wing Skoro argued that only his new party "guarantees a change, while SDP and HDZ guarantee the continuity of bad governance".

The popular musician made his debut when he finished third in Croatia's December presidential election, inspiring him to form a new movement.

Analysts say HDZ could ultimately accept a tie-up with the singer, despite anger over his moves to break off a segment of their traditional voting base.

SDP, on the other hand, is unlikely to consider such an alliance given 57-year-old Skoro's nostalgia for Croatia's pro-Nazi past and accusations of sexism.

Some 3.8 million people&nbsp;are eligible to vote with first official results due late Sunday.

Croatians went to polls Sunday to choose a government to navigate the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in a general election campaign that has been dominated by the health crisis.

Croatians went to polls Sunday to choose a government to navigate the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in a general election campaign that has been dominated by the health crisis. Also read: Polish president speaks out against same-sex couple adoptions The pandemic has put the European Union country's tourism-dependent economy on course for a contraction of nearly 10 percent -- its steepest decline in decades. The ruling conservative HDZ party has been touting its relative success in containing Croatia's outbreak thus far, with an official tally of roughly 100 deaths and 3,000 infections. But a rise of cases in recent weeks, with dozens recorded daily, has renewed fears over the health situation and given the opposition fresh ammunition. "Everyone is scared about what will happen in autumn," Vesna Trnokop, a 60-year-old economist from Zagreb, told AFP. "The coronavirus has changed economies, not only in Croatia, everywhere, so we should change our ideas." Polling stations across the Adriatic country opened at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and will close 12 hours later. HDZ is set for a close race with the main centre-left opposition and also risks losing votes to a new right-wing movement gunning for third place. Neither of the two main contenders -- Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic's HDZ or the 'Restart' coalition led by the Social Democrats (SDP) -- are expected to win an outright majority in the 151-seat assembly, surveys show. That leaves the populist 'Homeland Movement' of folk singer-turned-politician Miroslav Skoro, a potentially key coalition partner. Opposition leader and prime minister candidate Davor Bernardic has accused the government of "consciously pushing Croatia into a risk" by deciding to go ahead with the election in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. His party cancelled electoral rallies over health concerns while voters have been asked to wear masks and bring their own pens. Plenkovic, meanwhile, is hoping the uncertain future will inspire voters to stick with HDZ, in power since 2016. Now is the time for "serious choices and not for political quackery", said the former MEP with strong backing from Brussels, who has dismissed his rivals as ill-prepared. "Croatia doesn't have time for experiments like Bernardic or Skoro," he told AFP. Petar Dragic, a taxi driver from Zagreb, agreed with the prime minister and said he would vote for HDZ. "I'm pragmatic, don't care who is left or right. Only Plenkovic is capable of pulling funds from Brussels and this is what we need now," he told AFP referring to both the pandemic and looming economic crisis. Yet some Croatians are hungry for new faces in a country struggling with massive emigration driven by low salaries and corruption at home. "A lot needs to be changed," said retired teacher Branka Tekavec. "There is not enough focus on Croatians leaving for abroad, unemployment and poor salaries of young people." The government's rivals are also seizing on recent graft scandals that have rocked the party, with Bernardic calling for a "new start" instead of HDZ's "path of corruption". In his final address ahead of the vote, right-wing Skoro argued that only his new party "guarantees a change, while SDP and HDZ guarantee the continuity of bad governance". The popular musician made his debut when he finished third in Croatia's December presidential election, inspiring him to form a new movement. Analysts say HDZ could ultimately accept a tie-up with the singer, despite anger over his moves to break off a segment of their traditional voting base. SDP, on the other hand, is unlikely to consider such an alliance given 57-year-old Skoro's nostalgia for Croatia's pro-Nazi past and accusations of sexism. Some 3.8 million people are eligible to vote with first official results due late Sunday.

Croatia votes for new government as virus woes loom

Croatian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-votes-for-president-set-to-lead-european-union-269511">Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic</a> on Saturday blamed sexism and "fake news" for her defeat in elections last week, as well as a rival who split the right-wing electorate she was counting on.

Speaking to journalists in her official Zagreb palace, Grabar-Kitarovic blasted what she saw as often politically biased media in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-pick-a-president-in-tight-three-way-race-269278">Croatia</a>.

"In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-hold-presidential-vote-on-december-22-pm-plenkovic-262143">Croatia</a> we have not only press freedom, we have complete chaos in the media," she said, alleging that "some criminal organisations are paying" certain outlets.

She did not cite specific examples.

Leftist former prime minister Zoran Milanovic won the January 5 election and takes up the post during Croatia's helm at the rotating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-eu-commission-to-have-almost-as-many-women-as-men-248648">EU</a> presidency.

Issues such as the European Union's relationship with post-Brexit Britain and haggling over the bloc's long-term budget are likely to dominate.

Grabar-Kitarovic said that, with Milanovic, she hoped media reporting in her country "will calm down a bit, because he's a male".

Analysts however say that Grabar-Kitarovic's defeat owed to a poor campaign riddled with gaffes and embarrassing promises, such as one to increase monthly salaries to 8,000 euros, nearly 10 times the current average.&nbsp;

She also invited anger and mockery when she sang at the birthday party of Zagreb’s scandal-hit mayor and promised to bring him “cakes… in prison” if he was convicted on a slew of corruption charges.&nbsp;

The 51-year-old outgoing president denied knowledge of any corruption when she served in government as a minister.

She also said she was going to take "a couple of months" to decide what to do after leaving office, expressing a preference for academia.

Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic on Saturday blamed sexism and "fake news" for her defeat in elections last week, as well as a rival who split the right-wing electorate she was counting on.

Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic on Saturday blamed sexism and "fake news" for her defeat in elections last week, as well as a rival who split the right-wing electorate she was counting on. Speaking to journalists in her official Zagreb palace, Grabar-Kitarovic blasted what she saw as often politically biased media in Croatia. "In Croatia we have not only press freedom, we have complete chaos in the media," she said, alleging that "some criminal organisations are paying" certain outlets. She did not cite specific examples. Leftist former prime minister Zoran Milanovic won the January 5 election and takes up the post during Croatia's helm at the rotating EU presidency. Issues such as the European Union's relationship with post-Brexit Britain and haggling over the bloc's long-term budget are likely to dominate. Grabar-Kitarovic said that, with Milanovic, she hoped media reporting in her country "will calm down a bit, because he's a male". Analysts however say that Grabar-Kitarovic's defeat owed to a poor campaign riddled with gaffes and embarrassing promises, such as one to increase monthly salaries to 8,000 euros, nearly 10 times the current average. She also invited anger and mockery when she sang at the birthday party of Zagreb’s scandal-hit mayor and promised to bring him “cakes… in prison” if he was convicted on a slew of corruption charges. The 51-year-old outgoing president denied knowledge of any corruption when she served in government as a minister. She also said she was going to take "a couple of months" to decide what to do after leaving office, expressing a preference for academia.

Croatia president blames poll defeat on sexism, 'fake news'

Croatians cast ballots in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-pick-a-president-in-tight-three-way-race-269278">a presidential vote</a> on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency.&nbsp;

The pre-Christmas poll, likely to be decided in a January 5 run-off, has evolved into a tight race between conservative incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic and front-running rivals on the right and the left.&nbsp;

Grabar-Kitarovic has been president since 2015 with backing from HDZ, the centre-right party that has led Croatia for most of its independence since 1991.

During her term, the 51-year-old has wavered between representing the party's moderates and pandering to its nationalist faction.

In her re-election bid, she is struggling to hold on to hardliners shifting to a right-wing folk singer turned politician, Miroslav Skoro.

Playing on an emotive symbol of the 1990s independence war, Grabar-Kitarovic held her final campaign rally on Friday in eastern Vukovar, the town whose bloody siege by Serb forces became a byword for Croatian suffering during the conflict.&nbsp;

She told the crowd she believed those who fought and died in the war "don't regret being killed since Croatia is (now) here".

The comments were seen as part of her battle to keep far-right voters from turning to Skoro, who has been wooing nationalists with promises to deploy troops to halt migrants at the borders and pardon a convicted war criminal.

Running as an independent, the 57-year-old singer was polling in third place in the run-up to election day.

Meanwhile, the split on the right has carved out a space for leftist former premier Zoran Milanovic, 53, to gain traction. He was running neck-and-neck with Grabar-Kitarovic in the latest opinion polls.

Prime minister from 2011 to 2016, Milanovic was previously derided for his arrogance but is trying to make a comeback with the promise to make Croatia a "normal" country with an independent judiciary and respect for minorities.

Christmas calculation

Analysts say a loss for Grabar-Kitarovic would deliver a blow to HDZ Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, a moderate in the party, ahead of parliamentary elections next year.&nbsp;

Starting on January 1, his government will be tasked with hosting the EU's rotating presidency for a six-month term, with thorny issues like Brexit the Western Balkans' membership bids on the agenda.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatia-to-hold-presidential-vote-on-december-22-pm-plenkovic-262143">Critics of the government</a> have speculated that the pre-Christmas poll in an overwhelmingly Catholic country was purposefully scheduled to take advantage of the diaspora who are home for the holidays,&nbsp;and typically vote HDZ.&nbsp;

Of the 3.8 million people eligible to vote, some 170,000 are living abroad, mainly in neighbouring Bosnia.

The emigration exodus, a trend that accelerated after Croatia joined the EU in 2013, is one of the most pressing problems on the country's horizon.

The government has struggled to halt young people from packing their bags for better pay and professional opportunities in wealthier member states.&nbsp;

Many who leave also cite a culture of nepotism and corruption at home, plus poor public services, as key motivations.&nbsp;

The presidential campaign has however been light on policy ideas with many candidates instead attacking each other with war-era grievances.&nbsp;

Polling stations will be open from 0600 GMT to 1800 GMT, with initial results expected from 1900 GMT.

Croatians cast ballots in a presidential vote on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency.

Croatians cast ballots in a presidential vote on Sunday that could weaken the ruling conservatives just as the country takes the helm of the European Union's rotating presidency. The pre-Christmas poll, likely to be decided in a January 5 run-off, has evolved into a tight race between conservative incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic and front-running rivals on the right and the left. Grabar-Kitarovic has been president since 2015 with backing from HDZ, the centre-right party that has led Croatia for most of its independence since 1991. During her term, the 51-year-old has wavered between representing the party's moderates and pandering to its nationalist faction. In her re-election bid, she is struggling to hold on to hardliners shifting to a right-wing folk singer turned politician, Miroslav Skoro. Playing on an emotive symbol of the 1990s independence war, Grabar-Kitarovic held her final campaign rally on Friday in eastern Vukovar, the town whose bloody siege by Serb forces became a byword for Croatian suffering during the conflict. She told the crowd she believed those who fought and died in the war "don't regret being killed since Croatia is (now) here". The comments were seen as part of her battle to keep far-right voters from turning to Skoro, who has been wooing nationalists with promises to deploy troops to halt migrants at the borders and pardon a convicted war criminal. Running as an independent, the 57-year-old singer was polling in third place in the run-up to election day. Meanwhile, the split on the right has carved out a space for leftist former premier Zoran Milanovic, 53, to gain traction. He was running neck-and-neck with Grabar-Kitarovic in the latest opinion polls. Prime minister from 2011 to 2016, Milanovic was previously derided for his arrogance but is trying to make a comeback with the promise to make Croatia a "normal" country with an independent judiciary and respect for minorities. Christmas calculation Analysts say a loss for Grabar-Kitarovic would deliver a blow to HDZ Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, a moderate in the party, ahead of parliamentary elections next year. Starting on January 1, his government will be tasked with hosting the EU's rotating presidency for a six-month term, with thorny issues like Brexit the Western Balkans' membership bids on the agenda. Critics of the government have speculated that the pre-Christmas poll in an overwhelmingly Catholic country was purposefully scheduled to take advantage of the diaspora who are home for the holidays, and typically vote HDZ. Of the 3.8 million people eligible to vote, some 170,000 are living abroad, mainly in neighbouring Bosnia. The emigration exodus, a trend that accelerated after Croatia joined the EU in 2013, is one of the most pressing problems on the country's horizon. The government has struggled to halt young people from packing their bags for better pay and professional opportunities in wealthier member states. Many who leave also cite a culture of nepotism and corruption at home, plus poor public services, as key motivations. The presidential campaign has however been light on policy ideas with many candidates instead attacking each other with war-era grievances. Polling stations will be open from 0600 GMT to 1800 GMT, with initial results expected from 1900 GMT.

Croatia votes for president, set to lead European Union

A nationalist folk singer and a leftist former premier are challenging Croatia's conservative president in a close election race on Sunday that could loosen her camp's grip on power.

The Adriatic nation, which is set to host the <a href="wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-uses-threat-of-brexit-cliff-edge-to-demand-eu-trade-deal-by-end-of-2020-268681">European Union's</a> rotating presidency in 2020, is a magnet for tourists but no paradise for locals, who are leaving in droves to escape a sluggish economy and widespread corruption.&nbsp;

While the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic is a symbol of the status quo.

In office since 2015, the 51-year-old is backed by the centre-right HDZ who have dominated politics almost continuously since Croatia's 1991 independence.&nbsp;

Now she is facing attacks from both sides in an election likely to be settled in a run-off on January 5.

By then, Croatia will be host to the EU presidency for a six-month term focused on the bloc's boundaries: while the UK prepares for Brexit, Western Balkan states are knocking at the door.

'Cakes in prison'&nbsp;

Grabar-Kitarovic, Croatia's first female president, began her campaign with a comfortable lead in the polls.

But she has lost ground after a series of gaffes.

Most notably, the president raised eyebrows in November after she sang at the birthday party of Zagreb's scandal-hit mayor Milan Bandic and said she would "bring (him) cakes... in prison" if he is convicted of a slew of corruption charges.

An apparent effort to win over the mayor's supporters, the comments did little to inspire voters fed up with endemic graft.

Rivals now trail behind her 27 percent mark within the statistical margin of error, according to a recent poll by Ipsos Puls agency.

If Grabar-Kitarovic loses, analysts say it could spell trouble for HDZ's moderate Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in next year's parliamentary poll.

The top rivals on Sunday's ballot are former Social Democrat prime minister Zoran Milanovic and right-wing singer and businessman Miroslav Skoro, who is running as an independent.&nbsp;

Wooing nationalists&nbsp;

Skoro, whose patriotic folk tunes were a hit in the 90's, has been courting HDZ's nationalist wing in hopes of stealing votes from those who feel the party has become too moderate.

The 57-year-old has called for the military to be deployed to halt migrants at the border and promised to pardon a convicted war criminal.&nbsp;

He also wants to enlarge the powers of the president, who currently commands the armed forces and coordinates foreign policy with the government.&nbsp;

Grabar-Kitarovic has herself tried to placate nationalists in the past - including failing to clearly condemn growing nostalgia for Croatia's pro-Nazi WWII regime.

This year she announced her re-election bid in a far-right magazine.

"HDZ is split, it is clear that some of its voters will not support Grabar-Kitarovic," political analyst Tihomir Cipek told AFP.

'Gossip' campaign&nbsp;

Meanwhile, centre-left Milanovic is hoping to benefit from a divided right.

Considered driven by fans but arrogant by critics, the 53-year-old is already a familiar face after serving as prime minister from 2011 to 2016.

He promises to make Croatia a "normal country" that respects minorities and has an independent judiciary.&nbsp;

But enthusiasm for him dimmed after his government failed to halt the culture of patronage and boost the economy.

Croatia, which joined the EU in 2013 and is one of its poorest members, faces no shortage of pressing challenges.

Yet the presidential campaign has been decidedly backward-looking as rivals attack each other with war-era grievances.

Commenting on a debate this week, Education Minister Blazenka Divjak said the back-and-forth was a reminder of the&nbsp;"reasons why people are leaving".&nbsp;

Members of the public have also been unimpressed by the election build-up.

Mila, a retired teacher from the southern town of Imotski who declined to give her surname, lamented a campaign dominated by "gossip".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, they all talk more about the other candidates than about themselves," the 71-year-old told AFP.&nbsp;

Some 3.8 million people will be eligible to vote from 0600GMT to 1800GMT.

A nationalist folk singer and a leftist former premier are challenging Croatia's conservative president in a close election race on Sunday that could loosen her camp's grip on power.

A nationalist folk singer and a leftist former premier are challenging Croatia's conservative president in a close election race on Sunday that could loosen her camp's grip on power. The Adriatic nation, which is set to host the European Union's rotating presidency in 2020, is a magnet for tourists but no paradise for locals, who are leaving in droves to escape a sluggish economy and widespread corruption. While the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, incumbent Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic is a symbol of the status quo. In office since 2015, the 51-year-old is backed by the centre-right HDZ who have dominated politics almost continuously since Croatia's 1991 independence. Now she is facing attacks from both sides in an election likely to be settled in a run-off on January 5. By then, Croatia will be host to the EU presidency for a six-month term focused on the bloc's boundaries: while the UK prepares for Brexit, Western Balkan states are knocking at the door. 'Cakes in prison' Grabar-Kitarovic, Croatia's first female president, began her campaign with a comfortable lead in the polls. But she has lost ground after a series of gaffes. Most notably, the president raised eyebrows in November after she sang at the birthday party of Zagreb's scandal-hit mayor Milan Bandic and said she would "bring (him) cakes... in prison" if he is convicted of a slew of corruption charges. An apparent effort to win over the mayor's supporters, the comments did little to inspire voters fed up with endemic graft. Rivals now trail behind her 27 percent mark within the statistical margin of error, according to a recent poll by Ipsos Puls agency. If Grabar-Kitarovic loses, analysts say it could spell trouble for HDZ's moderate Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in next year's parliamentary poll. The top rivals on Sunday's ballot are former Social Democrat prime minister Zoran Milanovic and right-wing singer and businessman Miroslav Skoro, who is running as an independent. Wooing nationalists Skoro, whose patriotic folk tunes were a hit in the 90's, has been courting HDZ's nationalist wing in hopes of stealing votes from those who feel the party has become too moderate. The 57-year-old has called for the military to be deployed to halt migrants at the border and promised to pardon a convicted war criminal. He also wants to enlarge the powers of the president, who currently commands the armed forces and coordinates foreign policy with the government. Grabar-Kitarovic has herself tried to placate nationalists in the past - including failing to clearly condemn growing nostalgia for Croatia's pro-Nazi WWII regime. This year she announced her re-election bid in a far-right magazine. "HDZ is split, it is clear that some of its voters will not support Grabar-Kitarovic," political analyst Tihomir Cipek told AFP. 'Gossip' campaign Meanwhile, centre-left Milanovic is hoping to benefit from a divided right. Considered driven by fans but arrogant by critics, the 53-year-old is already a familiar face after serving as prime minister from 2011 to 2016. He promises to make Croatia a "normal country" that respects minorities and has an independent judiciary. But enthusiasm for him dimmed after his government failed to halt the culture of patronage and boost the economy. Croatia, which joined the EU in 2013 and is one of its poorest members, faces no shortage of pressing challenges. Yet the presidential campaign has been decidedly backward-looking as rivals attack each other with war-era grievances. Commenting on a debate this week, Education Minister Blazenka Divjak said the back-and-forth was a reminder of the "reasons why people are leaving". Members of the public have also been unimpressed by the election build-up. Mila, a retired teacher from the southern town of Imotski who declined to give her surname, lamented a campaign dominated by "gossip". "Unfortunately, they all talk more about the other candidates than about themselves," the 71-year-old told AFP. Some 3.8 million people will be eligible to vote from 0600GMT to 1800GMT.

Croatia to pick a president in tight three-way race

Croatia qualified for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifiers-france-celebrate-2-0-win-in-albanias-new-stadium-262830">Euro 2020</a> after second-half goals from Nikola Vlasic, Bruno Petkovic and Ivan Perisic inspired a comeback 3-1 home win over Slovakia in a pulsating Group E qualifier on Saturday.

The result left the Croatians on 17 points from eight games as they completed their campaign, with three sides behind them still in contention for next year's 24-nation tournament.

Second-placed Hungary (12 points) visit third-placed Wales (11 points) on Tuesday in a dogfight for a top-two finish where a win would see either through.

A draw, however, could allow fourth-placed Slovakia (10 points), who are at home to bottom team Azerbaijan in their final game, to squeeze through as they have a better head-to-head record against the Hungarians.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic, who guided them to a runners-up finish at the 2018 World Cup, was delighted.

"I am proud and I congratulate the players for winning the group and qualifying," he said.

"I wasn't worried when we fell behind because we were playing well and it was much easier after we equalised.

"All credit to the fans too who turned up in numbers and I hope we will bring more joy to Croatia in the European Championship."

Petkovic added: "We vowed not to lose our heads if we conceded first and managed to turn it around because we kept our composure. This young team has a very good chemistry."

Croatia squandered a flurry of first-half chances and were punished in the 32nd minute when Robert Bozenik turned in a Stanislav Lobotka cross from the left.

Bozenik almost doubled Slovakia's lead as Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic just managed to tip over the 19-year-old striker's ferocious drive from the edge of the penalty area.

Yet that was as good as it got for Slovakia on a rainy night in the coastal city of Rijeka, as Croatia turned the tide with a fierce second-half onslaught.

Vlasic equalised in the 56th minute with a low drive from 20 metres and Petkovic fired Croatia ahead four minutes later when he powered an unstoppable header into the top corner after Luka Modric swung in an inch-perfect corner.

Slovakia had winger Robert Mak sent off in the 66th minute for a second bookable foul before Perisic added the third for the home side, volleying home a Borna Barisic assist to delight a packed home crowd in Rujevica stadium.

Slovakia keeper Martin Dubravka spared Slovakia a heavier defeat with several fine saves in the closing stages.

Croatia qualified for Euro 2020 after second-half goals from Nikola Vlasic, Bruno Petkovic and Ivan Perisic inspired a comeback 3-1 home win over Slovakia in a pulsating Group E qualifier on Saturday.

Croatia qualified for Euro 2020 after second-half goals from Nikola Vlasic, Bruno Petkovic and Ivan Perisic inspired a comeback 3-1 home win over Slovakia in a pulsating Group E qualifier on Saturday. The result left the Croatians on 17 points from eight games as they completed their campaign, with three sides behind them still in contention for next year's 24-nation tournament. Second-placed Hungary (12 points) visit third-placed Wales (11 points) on Tuesday in a dogfight for a top-two finish where a win would see either through. A draw, however, could allow fourth-placed Slovakia (10 points), who are at home to bottom team Azerbaijan in their final game, to squeeze through as they have a better head-to-head record against the Hungarians. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic, who guided them to a runners-up finish at the 2018 World Cup, was delighted. "I am proud and I congratulate the players for winning the group and qualifying," he said. "I wasn't worried when we fell behind because we were playing well and it was much easier after we equalised. "All credit to the fans too who turned up in numbers and I hope we will bring more joy to Croatia in the European Championship." Petkovic added: "We vowed not to lose our heads if we conceded first and managed to turn it around because we kept our composure. This young team has a very good chemistry." Croatia squandered a flurry of first-half chances and were punished in the 32nd minute when Robert Bozenik turned in a Stanislav Lobotka cross from the left. Bozenik almost doubled Slovakia's lead as Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic just managed to tip over the 19-year-old striker's ferocious drive from the edge of the penalty area. Yet that was as good as it got for Slovakia on a rainy night in the coastal city of Rijeka, as Croatia turned the tide with a fierce second-half onslaught. Vlasic equalised in the 56th minute with a low drive from 20 metres and Petkovic fired Croatia ahead four minutes later when he powered an unstoppable header into the top corner after Luka Modric swung in an inch-perfect corner. Slovakia had winger Robert Mak sent off in the 66th minute for a second bookable foul before Perisic added the third for the home side, volleying home a Borna Barisic assist to delight a packed home crowd in Rujevica stadium. Slovakia keeper Martin Dubravka spared Slovakia a heavier defeat with several fine saves in the closing stages.

Croatia reach Euro 2020 with 3-1 win over Slovakia

Winter poses new threat to migrants in Bosnian forest camp

Croatia&nbsp;remained firmly on&nbsp;course&nbsp;to reach Euro 2020 after two goals from striker Bruno Petkovic helped them to a 3-0 home win over&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;while&nbsp;Wales&nbsp;kept alive their hopes with a 1-1 draw at&nbsp;Slovakia&nbsp;in qualifying Group E on Thursday.

The&nbsp;Croatians top the group with 13 points from six matches and will secure a berth in next year's finals with a match to spare if they beat&nbsp;Wales&nbsp;away on Sunday.

Slovakia&nbsp;are second on 10 points from six matches, one ahead of third-placed&nbsp;Hungary, while&nbsp;Wales&nbsp;are fourth with seven points from five games. The bottom team Azerbaijan has one point from five matches.

The&nbsp;Croatians dominated after captain Luka Modric fired them into a fifth-minute lead when he picked up a loose ball in midfield, raced down the middle and steered a shot past&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi.

Petkovic made it 2-0 with a delightful back-heel from close range after Ante Rebic left his marker for dead on the left flank and squared the ball to the Dinamo Zagreb hitman.

A catalogue of defensive errors allowed Petkovic to bundle in the third late in the first half, as Tamas Kadar and Gulacsi misjudged Ivan Perisic's low cross from the right.

Gulacsi made amends in the 55th minute when he saved Perisic's penalty after Rebic was fouled but any slim hopes of a&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;comeback were dashed moments later when Laszlo Kleinheisler was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Wales&nbsp;missed a chance to close in on the top two after a sumptuous second-half volley by&nbsp;Slovakia&nbsp;defender Juraj Kucka cancelled out Kieffer Moore's 25th-minute opener.

Moore headed home after Daniel James delivered a fine cross into the penalty area but the visitors failed to clear a Peter Pekarik cross in the 53rd minute and Kucka blasted in the equaliser from 20 meters.

Gareth Bale hit the crossbar for&nbsp;Wales&nbsp;with a first-half header and the&nbsp;Slovakians had defender Norbert Gyomber sent off in the 88th minute for a second yellow card after a poor tackle on Moore.

Croatia remained firmly on course to reach Euro 2020 after two goals from striker Bruno Petkovic helped them to a 3-0 home win over Hungary while Wales kept alive their hopes with a 1-1 draw at Slovakia in qualifying Group E on Thursday.

Croatia remained firmly on course to reach Euro 2020 after two goals from striker Bruno Petkovic helped them to a 3-0 home win over Hungary while Wales kept alive their hopes with a 1-1 draw at Slovakia in qualifying Group E on Thursday. The Croatians top the group with 13 points from six matches and will secure a berth in next year's finals with a match to spare if they beat Wales away on Sunday. Slovakia are second on 10 points from six matches, one ahead of third-placed Hungary, while Wales are fourth with seven points from five games. The bottom team Azerbaijan has one point from five matches. The Croatians dominated after captain Luka Modric fired them into a fifth-minute lead when he picked up a loose ball in midfield, raced down the middle and steered a shot past Hungary goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi. Petkovic made it 2-0 with a delightful back-heel from close range after Ante Rebic left his marker for dead on the left flank and squared the ball to the Dinamo Zagreb hitman. A catalogue of defensive errors allowed Petkovic to bundle in the third late in the first half, as Tamas Kadar and Gulacsi misjudged Ivan Perisic's low cross from the right. Gulacsi made amends in the 55th minute when he saved Perisic's penalty after Rebic was fouled but any slim hopes of a Hungary comeback were dashed moments later when Laszlo Kleinheisler was sent off for a second bookable offence. Wales missed a chance to close in on the top two after a sumptuous second-half volley by Slovakia defender Juraj Kucka cancelled out Kieffer Moore's 25th-minute opener. Moore headed home after Daniel James delivered a fine cross into the penalty area but the visitors failed to clear a Peter Pekarik cross in the 53rd minute and Kucka blasted in the equaliser from 20 meters. Gareth Bale hit the crossbar for Wales with a first-half header and the Slovakians had defender Norbert Gyomber sent off in the 88th minute for a second yellow card after a poor tackle on Moore.

Euro 2020 qualifiers: Croatia thump Hungary to stay on course, Slovakia hold Wales

Croatia went top of Euro 2020 qualifying Group E despite being held to a surprise 1-1 draw in Azerbaijan as Hungary slipped to a shock 2-1 home defeat by neighbours Slovakia on Monday.

The results lifted Croatia into pole position on 10 points from five games, one ahead of Slovakia, who bounced back in style after Friday's 4-0 home drubbing by the Croatians, and Hungary.

Wales have six points from four games and Azerbaijan are on one point from five matches.

The Croatians took an 11th-minute lead thanks to a Luka Modric penalty after Anton Krivotsyuk handled the ball and then missed a hatful of chances before substitute Tamkin Khalilzade equalised with a solo effort.

The forward weaved his way past three defenders after cutting in from the left flank and beat goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic with a fine shot from eight metres.

Home keeper Emil Balayev twice denied Nikola Vlasic and also kept out a pair of Ante Rebic sitters in the first half, while Azerbaijan had two goals correctly ruled out for offside in an action-packed encounter.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic scorned his players for a below-par performance as it left them with work to do in order to qualify for next year's 24-nation tournament.

"Some of my players need to grow up," Dalic told reporters.

"We missed too many chances after taking an early lead and their goalkeeper also had an excellent afternoon. They stifled us in the second half and we only have ourselves to blame."

Hungary failed to capitalise on Croatia's slip-up as they conceded two goals against the run of play in front of a fervent home crowd in Budapest.

Robert Mak fired the visitors ahead in the 40th minute when he swept a loose ball into the net from seven metres after Marek Hamsik's teasing low cross from the right rebounded kindly.

The home side levelled in the 50th minute when 18-year-old Dominik Szoboszlai curled in a delightful free kick past keeper Martin Dubravka for his first international goal.

But the Hungarians were rocked again six minutes later when Slovakia's 19-year-old striker Robert Bozenik also netted the first goal for his country, driving in a crisp shot from the edge of the penalty area.

Mak fired over an empty net after a defensive mix-up several minutes later and Dubravka then rescued Slovakia when he kept out a rasping shot by midfielder Balazs Dzsudzsak.

Croatia went top of Euro 2020 qualifying Group E despite being held to a surprise 1-1 draw in Azerbaijan as Hungary slipped to a shock 2-1 home defeat by neighbours Slovakia on Monday.

Croatia went top of Euro 2020 qualifying Group E despite being held to a surprise 1-1 draw in Azerbaijan as Hungary slipped to a shock 2-1 home defeat by neighbours Slovakia on Monday. The results lifted Croatia into pole position on 10 points from five games, one ahead of Slovakia, who bounced back in style after Friday's 4-0 home drubbing by the Croatians, and Hungary. Wales have six points from four games and Azerbaijan are on one point from five matches. The Croatians took an 11th-minute lead thanks to a Luka Modric penalty after Anton Krivotsyuk handled the ball and then missed a hatful of chances before substitute Tamkin Khalilzade equalised with a solo effort. The forward weaved his way past three defenders after cutting in from the left flank and beat goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic with a fine shot from eight metres. Home keeper Emil Balayev twice denied Nikola Vlasic and also kept out a pair of Ante Rebic sitters in the first half, while Azerbaijan had two goals correctly ruled out for offside in an action-packed encounter. Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic scorned his players for a below-par performance as it left them with work to do in order to qualify for next year's 24-nation tournament. "Some of my players need to grow up," Dalic told reporters. "We missed too many chances after taking an early lead and their goalkeeper also had an excellent afternoon. They stifled us in the second half and we only have ourselves to blame." Hungary failed to capitalise on Croatia's slip-up as they conceded two goals against the run of play in front of a fervent home crowd in Budapest. Robert Mak fired the visitors ahead in the 40th minute when he swept a loose ball into the net from seven metres after Marek Hamsik's teasing low cross from the right rebounded kindly. The home side levelled in the 50th minute when 18-year-old Dominik Szoboszlai curled in a delightful free kick past keeper Martin Dubravka for his first international goal. But the Hungarians were rocked again six minutes later when Slovakia's 19-year-old striker Robert Bozenik also netted the first goal for his country, driving in a crisp shot from the edge of the penalty area. Mak fired over an empty net after a defensive mix-up several minutes later and Dubravka then rescued Slovakia when he kept out a rasping shot by midfielder Balazs Dzsudzsak.

Croatia go top as Slovakia stun Hungary

Bundesliga champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ivan-perisic-on-verge-of-bayern-loan-move-report-242481">Bayern Munich signed Croatia winger Ivan Perisic</a> on loan for a season from Inter Milan on Tuesday after a widely expected move by Manchester City's Leroy Sane fell through due to the player's knee injury.

A 2018 World Cup finalist, Perisic, who also played for Borussia Dortmund and VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga between 2011 and 2015, will play for Bayern starting on Friday.

Bayern have an option to buy him next season.

The Croat, 30, will reinforce Bayern's wings along with Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman following the departures of veterans Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery.

Coman has also been plagued by serious injuries since joining the Bavarians two years ago.

"Ivan will instantly help us with his top level experience," said Bayern sports director Hasan Salihamidzic in a statement.

"He is skilled and is flexible up front. I am certain he will quickly integrate because he knows the Bundesliga and also our coach Niko Kovac."

Bayern had publicly expressed an interest to sign City winger Sane but the 23-year-old Germany international tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the Community Shield win over Liverpool at Wembley earlier this month.

The German champions, beaten by Dortmund in the German Super Cup earlier this month, kick off their Bundesliga campaign against Hertha Berlin on Friday.

Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich signed Croatia winger Ivan Perisic on loan for a season from Inter Milan on Tuesday after a widely expected move by Manchester City's Leroy Sane fell through due to the player's knee injury.

Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich signed Croatia winger Ivan Perisic on loan for a season from Inter Milan on Tuesday after a widely expected move by Manchester City's Leroy Sane fell through due to the player's knee injury. A 2018 World Cup finalist, Perisic, who also played for Borussia Dortmund and VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga between 2011 and 2015, will play for Bayern starting on Friday. Bayern have an option to buy him next season. The Croat, 30, will reinforce Bayern's wings along with Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman following the departures of veterans Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery. Coman has also been plagued by serious injuries since joining the Bavarians two years ago. "Ivan will instantly help us with his top level experience," said Bayern sports director Hasan Salihamidzic in a statement. "He is skilled and is flexible up front. I am certain he will quickly integrate because he knows the Bundesliga and also our coach Niko Kovac." Bayern had publicly expressed an interest to sign City winger Sane but the 23-year-old Germany international tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the Community Shield win over Liverpool at Wembley earlier this month. The German champions, beaten by Dortmund in the German Super Cup earlier this month, kick off their Bundesliga campaign against Hertha Berlin on Friday.

Bayern Munich sign winger Ivan Perisic on from Inter Milan

Inter Milan and Croatia winger Ivan Perisic has confirmed that he is on the verge of a move to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to reports in German media.&nbsp;

Perisic was spotted in Munich on Monday morning, and reportedly told Bild newspaper that he had undergone a medical check.&nbsp;

According to Bild, Bayern will pay a loan fee of five million Euros ($5.6m) for the 2018 World Cup finalist, with the option to buy him outright for around 20 million Euros at the end of the season.&nbsp;

Perisic's current contract at Inter runs until 2022, but he is reportedly set to play less of a role under new coach Antonio Conte.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At Bayern, he will provide much-needed reinforcement on the wing following the departure of club icons Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery at the end of last season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The German giants had initially targeted Leroy Sane, but turned their attentions to Perisic after the Manchester City winger was confirmed to have torn his anterior cruciate ligament last week, potentially ruling him out until early 2020.&nbsp;

Inter Milan and Croatia winger Ivan Perisic has confirmed that he is on the verge of a move to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to reports in German media.

Inter Milan and Croatia winger Ivan Perisic has confirmed that he is on the verge of a move to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to reports in German media. Perisic was spotted in Munich on Monday morning, and reportedly told Bild newspaper that he had undergone a medical check. According to Bild, Bayern will pay a loan fee of five million Euros ($5.6m) for the 2018 World Cup finalist, with the option to buy him outright for around 20 million Euros at the end of the season. Perisic's current contract at Inter runs until 2022, but he is reportedly set to play less of a role under new coach Antonio Conte. At Bayern, he will provide much-needed reinforcement on the wing following the departure of club icons Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery at the end of last season. The German giants had initially targeted Leroy Sane, but turned their attentions to Perisic after the Manchester City winger was confirmed to have torn his anterior cruciate ligament last week, potentially ruling him out until early 2020.

Ivan Perisic on verge of Bayern loan move: Report

Watch how Croatia has been forced to evacuate thousands to escape wildfire, and more stories in WION Weather.

WION Weather: Wildfire causes evacuation in Croatia

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported.

Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said.

A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported.

President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members.

A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday.&nbsp;

Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war.

About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.&nbsp;

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission. He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said. A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported. President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members. A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday. Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday. Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war. About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.

Croatian soldier killed in Kabul attack returns home

Aid workers sounded the alarm on Wednesday about health and hygiene conditions in a makeshift forest camp in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/karadzic-handed-life-sentence-for-bosnia-war-crimes-204596">Bosnia</a> for hundreds of migrants as they face the spread of scabies and other diseases as well as food shortages.

Over the past 10 days, municipal authorities in Bihac have moved up to 700 migrants from Asia and North Africa who had been sleeping rough in the town to an improvised tent settlement at a former landfill some 8 km (5 miles) from the Croatian border.

The Red Cross is the only relief agency providing hot meals and hygiene items to the migrants at the site at Vucjak and has erected about 50 tents so far as well as improvised quarantine arrangements for the sick.

The European Union and UN agencies have criticised sanitary conditions at the site, which they also say is located in an area still peppered with landmines left over from the 1990s wars in Bosnia.

"The health situation is alarming. Many people are already infected with scabies and there are other health problems too," said Katarina Zoric, a spokeswoman for the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC).

Scabies is a highly infectious skin disease.

Zoric said the Red Cross could provide only basic medical aid but said some people at the camp were reportedly suffering from tuberculosis and hepatitis. Some had been brought to the camp after surgery.

Snakes

Bosnia, which is not an EU member and was largely bypassed by refugees and asylum seekers during Europe's 2015 migrant crisis, has seen an increase in migrant arrivals since EU members Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia closed their borders.

More than 33,300 migrants have entered Bosnia since last year, of whom around 9,000 have settled in the Bihac area hoping to cross the border into Croatia and thence to western Europe.

The tents at Vucjak are pitched among piles of garbage and muddy pools following recent rainfall. The people used water from tanks to wash in the scorching heat.

"This is a jungle camp," said Mohammad Kamran Khan from Pakistan. "Every day I kill one snake, two snakes, or other animals (that pose a risk to the migrants)."

Zoric said the camp was running out of some food supplies and called for international aid.

The EU said on Tuesday it would provide 14.8 million euros ($16.8 million) to address the needs of migrants and refugees stranded in Bosnia.

The mayor of Bihac, Suhret Fazlic, said he hoped the EU would press state institutions, which are in charge of migration and asylum policies, to take responsibility for the migrants.

"Bihac was literally invaded by migrants," Fazlic told Reuters, adding that the town of 50,000 had provided shelter for at least 5,000 people. He said he was not happy with the Vucjak site and stressed it was just a temporary transit centre.

"A migrant crisis, which is a global problem, cannot be solved in Bihac. It must be solved at the state level, at the regional level and in cooperation with the European Union."

Police sent back to the camp on Wednesday three groups of people who had been found exhausted in the woods. Croatian police had returned them to Bosnia after they walked over a nearby mountain.

"The Croatian police beat us as if we were animals," said Hasnen Arshad, 17, from Pakistan.

Arshad and other migrants also said the Croatian police had smashed their mobile phones and had taken money from them.

"What to do now?", he asked. "No money, no mobile."

Croatian police have repeatedly denied using strongarm tactics against migrants.

Aid workers sounded the alarm on Wednesday about health and hygiene conditions in a makeshift forest camp in Bosnia for hundreds of migrants as they face the spread of scabies and other diseases as well as food shortages.

Aid workers sounded the alarm on Wednesday about health and hygiene conditions in a makeshift forest camp in Bosnia for hundreds of migrants as they face the spread of scabies and other diseases as well as food shortages. Over the past 10 days, municipal authorities in Bihac have moved up to 700 migrants from Asia and North Africa who had been sleeping rough in the town to an improvised tent settlement at a former landfill some 8 km (5 miles) from the Croatian border. The Red Cross is the only relief agency providing hot meals and hygiene items to the migrants at the site at Vucjak and has erected about 50 tents so far as well as improvised quarantine arrangements for the sick. The European Union and UN agencies have criticised sanitary conditions at the site, which they also say is located in an area still peppered with landmines left over from the 1990s wars in Bosnia. "The health situation is alarming. Many people are already infected with scabies and there are other health problems too," said Katarina Zoric, a spokeswoman for the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC). Scabies is a highly infectious skin disease. Zoric said the Red Cross could provide only basic medical aid but said some people at the camp were reportedly suffering from tuberculosis and hepatitis. Some had been brought to the camp after surgery. Snakes Bosnia, which is not an EU member and was largely bypassed by refugees and asylum seekers during Europe's 2015 migrant crisis, has seen an increase in migrant arrivals since EU members Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia closed their borders. More than 33,300 migrants have entered Bosnia since last year, of whom around 9,000 have settled in the Bihac area hoping to cross the border into Croatia and thence to western Europe. The tents at Vucjak are pitched among piles of garbage and muddy pools following recent rainfall. The people used water from tanks to wash in the scorching heat. "This is a jungle camp," said Mohammad Kamran Khan from Pakistan. "Every day I kill one snake, two snakes, or other animals (that pose a risk to the migrants)." Zoric said the camp was running out of some food supplies and called for international aid. The EU said on Tuesday it would provide 14.8 million euros ($16.8 million) to address the needs of migrants and refugees stranded in Bosnia. The mayor of Bihac, Suhret Fazlic, said he hoped the EU would press state institutions, which are in charge of migration and asylum policies, to take responsibility for the migrants. "Bihac was literally invaded by migrants," Fazlic told Reuters, adding that the town of 50,000 had provided shelter for at least 5,000 people. He said he was not happy with the Vucjak site and stressed it was just a temporary transit centre. "A migrant crisis, which is a global problem, cannot be solved in Bihac. It must be solved at the state level, at the regional level and in cooperation with the European Union." Police sent back to the camp on Wednesday three groups of people who had been found exhausted in the woods. Croatian police had returned them to Bosnia after they walked over a nearby mountain. "The Croatian police beat us as if we were animals," said Hasnen Arshad, 17, from Pakistan. Arshad and other migrants also said the Croatian police had smashed their mobile phones and had taken money from them. "What to do now?", he asked. "No money, no mobile." Croatian police have repeatedly denied using strongarm tactics against migrants.

Diseases, food shortages plague migrant 'jungle camp' in Bosnia

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetri-receives-football-ratna-award-198061&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ59uOr5_iAhW1muYKHTeBDDwQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rcY7jD0nJEAlefvQSKlQv">India's all-time top goalscorer Sunil Chhetri</a> praised Igor Stimac, who has been recently appointed as the new head coach for Indian national team, saying the Croatian international has a lot of experience and it will all depend on the players, how they are going to take benefit from it.

"He is a coach who brings a lot of experience to the table and I'm really looking forward to working with him. There are a lot of talented youngsters coming through the ranks for the national team and his experience would benefit us all," Goal quoted Chhetri, as saying.

"His experience speaks for itself and it is upon us to take advantage of it. He's been on the biggest stage of them all and knows what it takes to keep improving. Of course, India will be a completely different ball game as compared to the teams and players he has managed, but we are all keen to keep moving ahead," he added.

Chhetri is also of the opinion that the only aim of all three -- federation, players and a new coach - is to keep India progressing.

"The Federation (AIFF) has appointed the coach with the view that we, as a country, keep progressing. That's the Federation's aim, our aim as players and even the aim of the new coach. We will give this an almighty push and let's see where it takes us," Chhetri said.&nbsp;

India's all-time top goalscorer Sunil Chhetri praised Igor Stimac, who has been recently appointed as the new head coach for Indian national team, saying the Croatian international has a lot of experience and it will all depend on the players, how they are going to take benefit from it.

India's all-time top goalscorer Sunil Chhetri praised Igor Stimac, who has been recently appointed as the new head coach for Indian national team, saying the Croatian international has a lot of experience and it will all depend on the players, how they are going to take benefit from it. "He is a coach who brings a lot of experience to the table and I'm really looking forward to working with him. There are a lot of talented youngsters coming through the ranks for the national team and his experience would benefit us all," Goal quoted Chhetri, as saying. "His experience speaks for itself and it is upon us to take advantage of it. He's been on the biggest stage of them all and knows what it takes to keep improving. Of course, India will be a completely different ball game as compared to the teams and players he has managed, but we are all keen to keep moving ahead," he added. Chhetri is also of the opinion that the only aim of all three -- federation, players and a new coach - is to keep India progressing. "The Federation (AIFF) has appointed the coach with the view that we, as a country, keep progressing. That's the Federation's aim, our aim as players and even the aim of the new coach. We will give this an almighty push and let's see where it takes us," Chhetri said.

Sunil Chhetri hails newly appointed Indian football team's coach Igor Stimac

Chinese Premier<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/with-economy-slowing-china-premier-li-keqiang-says-tough-struggle-ahead-201278&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiDsvKu2cnhAhUz6nMBHQwUBbkQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw16rBTqWK9IsoII5icEuMEr"> Li Keqiang</a> will meet leaders from eastern and central Europe in Croatia on Friday to talk business, fresh from a key summit with EU where he pledged opening up his country's economy.

The coastal city of Dubrovnik is hosting the eighth annual "16+1 cooperation" -- an economic platform for Beijing's investments in 11 eastern European Union states and five Western Balkan countries.

The grouping has been eyed cautiously in western European capitals as an attempt to "divide and rule" the bloc, a goal Li has denied.&nbsp;

In an article published in Croatian dailies ahead of the gathering, the Chinese premier tried to paint the summit in a cheery light:

"When we put 17 multicolour countries together we get a colour richer than a rainbow," he wrote in the article titled "Multicolour countries, spacious future".

"If we build a rainbow bridge through Asia and Europe, we will achieve nice future cooperation."

Eastern Europe is a core component of Beijing's vast "Belt and Road" project, valued at up to $1 trillion and aimed at constructing land and sea links to allow Chinese exports to flow westward.&nbsp;

China has previously announced a $10 billion credit line and $3 billion investment fund for the 16-country region.

So far its record on follow-through is mixed, with some major construction projects underway while other promised investments have been delayed or scrapped.

For instance, building on one of 16+1's flag-ship projects -- a railway from Belgrade to Budapest -- has just started in Serbia but is held up by snags in Hungary, ultimately making scant progress five years after it was announced.

'Pilot project'

This year's summit comes just three days after a top EU-China meeting, attended by Li, held as Brussels demands more balanced economic ties with a country it recently labelled as a "systemic rival".

In Brussels, on Tuesday the Asian giant pledged to push further to open its economy and deepen ties with the bloc.

EU Council president Donald Tusk hailed Beijing's new commitments as a "breakthrough" with both sides committed to globalisation and pursuing international rules.

Brussels and Beijing in a document called for "broader and more facilitated, non-discriminatory market access," in wording the Europeans saw as a Chinese concession.

The EU is increasingly unhappy that markets in Europe are wide open to Chinese companies, while the equivalent is not the case in China.

While the EU's 15-trillion-euro ($16.9 trillion) market gives it significant economic clout, the bloc struggles to maintain unity among its 28 members on issues of foreign policy, allowing China to pursue one-on-one deals with individual countries.

Some EU powers, such as France and Germany, are growing increasingly concerned with China's Belt and Road ambitions, especially after populist-led Italy recently became the first G7 member to join the scheme.&nbsp;

In 2018, China was the second largest destination for European exports.

The Chinese trade balance is largely in surplus with the bloc at 184 billion euros, according to Brussels figures.

During the first visit of a Chinese premier to Croatia, Li on Thursday visited the site where a Chinese firm started construction on a 280-million-euro bridge on the Adriatic coast.

It is the first significant Chinese project in Croatia and funded by the EU.

"This bridge is a pilot project for both '16+1 cooperation' and cooperation between China and EU," Li said while visiting the bridge's site on Thursday.

About 1,000 businessmen including some 400 Chinese will participate at a business forum held alongside the summit in Dubrovnik.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang will meet leaders from eastern and central Europe in Croatia on Friday to talk business, fresh from a key summit with EU where he pledged opening up his country's economy.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang will meet leaders from eastern and central Europe in Croatia on Friday to talk business, fresh from a key summit with EU where he pledged opening up his country's economy. The coastal city of Dubrovnik is hosting the eighth annual "16+1 cooperation" -- an economic platform for Beijing's investments in 11 eastern European Union states and five Western Balkan countries. The grouping has been eyed cautiously in western European capitals as an attempt to "divide and rule" the bloc, a goal Li has denied. In an article published in Croatian dailies ahead of the gathering, the Chinese premier tried to paint the summit in a cheery light: "When we put 17 multicolour countries together we get a colour richer than a rainbow," he wrote in the article titled "Multicolour countries, spacious future". "If we build a rainbow bridge through Asia and Europe, we will achieve nice future cooperation." Eastern Europe is a core component of Beijing's vast "Belt and Road" project, valued at up to $1 trillion and aimed at constructing land and sea links to allow Chinese exports to flow westward. China has previously announced a $10 billion credit line and $3 billion investment fund for the 16-country region. So far its record on follow-through is mixed, with some major construction projects underway while other promised investments have been delayed or scrapped. For instance, building on one of 16+1's flag-ship projects -- a railway from Belgrade to Budapest -- has just started in Serbia but is held up by snags in Hungary, ultimately making scant progress five years after it was announced. 'Pilot project' This year's summit comes just three days after a top EU-China meeting, attended by Li, held as Brussels demands more balanced economic ties with a country it recently labelled as a "systemic rival". In Brussels, on Tuesday the Asian giant pledged to push further to open its economy and deepen ties with the bloc. EU Council president Donald Tusk hailed Beijing's new commitments as a "breakthrough" with both sides committed to globalisation and pursuing international rules. Brussels and Beijing in a document called for "broader and more facilitated, non-discriminatory market access," in wording the Europeans saw as a Chinese concession. The EU is increasingly unhappy that markets in Europe are wide open to Chinese companies, while the equivalent is not the case in China. While the EU's 15-trillion-euro ($16.9 trillion) market gives it significant economic clout, the bloc struggles to maintain unity among its 28 members on issues of foreign policy, allowing China to pursue one-on-one deals with individual countries. Some EU powers, such as France and Germany, are growing increasingly concerned with China's Belt and Road ambitions, especially after populist-led Italy recently became the first G7 member to join the scheme. In 2018, China was the second largest destination for European exports. The Chinese trade balance is largely in surplus with the bloc at 184 billion euros, according to Brussels figures. During the first visit of a Chinese premier to Croatia, Li on Thursday visited the site where a Chinese firm started construction on a 280-million-euro bridge on the Adriatic coast. It is the first significant Chinese project in Croatia and funded by the EU. "This bridge is a pilot project for both '16+1 cooperation' and cooperation between China and EU," Li said while visiting the bridge's site on Thursday. About 1,000 businessmen including some 400 Chinese will participate at a business forum held alongside the summit in Dubrovnik.

China courts eastern Europe after key European Union summit

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy.

India will be conducting separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Kovind's visit to these countries, from March 25 to April 2, a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said.

"The large business delegations joining in the bilateral business forums organized as part of the visit of President, indicate the increasing interest of Indian companies in expanding business ties with these countries," the statement read.

President Kovind will first visit Croatia from March 25 to 28 in what would be the first visit by an Indian president to the European country. He is scheduled to participate in the India-Croatia Business Forum and deliver an address at the University of Zagreb.

In Bolivia from March 28 to 30, the President will hold restricted and delegation-level talks with his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales. This is the first high-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

"Bolivia's Lithium and our needs for eMobility and eStorage provide natural synergies. As Bolivia embarks on the industrialization of its resources, India is a willing partner for know-how, technology and skills. In the Financial Year 2017-18, the bilateral trade grew by 205% to reach US$ 772 million," the statement outlined.

On March 30, President Kovind will head to Chile. The visit comes at a time when the 70th year of establishment of India-Chile diplomatic relations is being celebrated.

Besides holding talks with Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera, President Kovind is scheduled to participate in a business meet and address the University of Chile.

"President's state visits to the three countries would reinvigorate bilateral ties and provide new direction to multi-faceted development of our bilateral relations," the MEA statement noted.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy. India will be conducting separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Kovind's visit to these countries, from March 25 to April 2, a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said. "The large business delegations joining in the bilateral business forums organized as part of the visit of President, indicate the increasing interest of Indian companies in expanding business ties with these countries," the statement read. President Kovind will first visit Croatia from March 25 to 28 in what would be the first visit by an Indian president to the European country. He is scheduled to participate in the India-Croatia Business Forum and deliver an address at the University of Zagreb. In Bolivia from March 28 to 30, the President will hold restricted and delegation-level talks with his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales. This is the first high-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. "Bolivia's Lithium and our needs for eMobility and eStorage provide natural synergies. As Bolivia embarks on the industrialization of its resources, India is a willing partner for know-how, technology and skills. In the Financial Year 2017-18, the bilateral trade grew by 205% to reach US$ 772 million," the statement outlined. On March 30, President Kovind will head to Chile. The visit comes at a time when the 70th year of establishment of India-Chile diplomatic relations is being celebrated. Besides holding talks with Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera, President Kovind is scheduled to participate in a business meet and address the University of Chile. "President's state visits to the three countries would reinvigorate bilateral ties and provide new direction to multi-faceted development of our bilateral relations," the MEA statement noted.

President Ram Nath Kovind embarks on state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile

A Croatian bishop accidentally shot and badly wounded a man while hunting wild boar, reports and officials said Tuesday, igniting criticism on social media in the mainly Catholic country. &nbsp;

Bishop Vjekoslav Huzjak was on an organised hunting trip in eastern Croatia on Friday when he misfired his rifle and struck another hunter in the thigh, the &nbsp;Vecernji List daily paper said.

The bishop's Bjelovar-Krizevci diocese said in a statement that "he voices his deep sorrow for what has happened and wishes a quick recovery to the wounded hunter".

Police, without identifying the bishop, said they "completed a probe of a 58-year-old man" who "shot at a wild boar but missed and the bullet hit a 64-year-old man".

He was hospitalised in Zagreb with serious injuries but his life was not in danger, police said, adding that they would file a criminal complaint against the shooter.&nbsp;

"This is something unusual and such a thing has never happened in the recent history of our Church," the Vecernji List paper quoted an anonymous church source as saying.

According to local media, the bishop has a reputation as an avid hunter.

The accident sparked many, mostly negative, comments on social media in Croatia, where nearly 90 per cent of the 4.2 million population is Roman Catholics.&nbsp;

"This is what happens when priests instead of sticking to altar get hold of a rifle ... Amen!," one woman commented on Facebook.

"What is a bishop doing hunting? Killing creatures of God?" another man wrote. "Isn't that against his service and faith he preaches?"

A Croatian bishop accidentally shot and badly wounded a man while hunting wild boar, reports and officials said Tuesday, igniting criticism on social media in the mainly Catholic country.

A Croatian bishop accidentally shot and badly wounded a man while hunting wild boar, reports and officials said Tuesday, igniting criticism on social media in the mainly Catholic country. Bishop Vjekoslav Huzjak was on an organised hunting trip in eastern Croatia on Friday when he misfired his rifle and struck another hunter in the thigh, the Vecernji List daily paper said. The bishop's Bjelovar-Krizevci diocese said in a statement that "he voices his deep sorrow for what has happened and wishes a quick recovery to the wounded hunter". Police, without identifying the bishop, said they "completed a probe of a 58-year-old man" who "shot at a wild boar but missed and the bullet hit a 64-year-old man". He was hospitalised in Zagreb with serious injuries but his life was not in danger, police said, adding that they would file a criminal complaint against the shooter. "This is something unusual and such a thing has never happened in the recent history of our Church," the Vecernji List paper quoted an anonymous church source as saying. According to local media, the bishop has a reputation as an avid hunter. The accident sparked many, mostly negative, comments on social media in Croatia, where nearly 90 per cent of the 4.2 million population is Roman Catholics. "This is what happens when priests instead of sticking to altar get hold of a rifle ... Amen!," one woman commented on Facebook. "What is a bishop doing hunting? Killing creatures of God?" another man wrote. "Isn't that against his service and faith he preaches?"

Oh sweet lord! Croatian bishop accidentally shoots hunter

FIFA ranking at the end of the year 2018

In pictures: Christmas celebrations around the globe

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final.

Croatia's star footballer then looked forward to building on the momentum and continued his preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2018.&nbsp;

In his leadership, Croatia reached the final of football World Cup for the first time in history, however, the team lost to France in the high-octane clash.&nbsp;

Despite the 4-2 defeat by France, more than 500,000 people gave captain Modric and his team a heroic welcome on their return to Croatia's capital city, Zagreb.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old Modric is described as a quick and creative playmaker. He believes in promoting goals and very rare shoots off-mark when he attempts to score.&nbsp;

With great vision, he tries to change the course of the game with a deft pass, or with a solo, long-range effort.

Modric is popular for his ability to pass the ball accurately across long or short distances, his ball control, first touch, positional play, and his ability to retain possession.

Very few would know that Modric is able to play with both feet and with the help of his clever moves, he sets the tempo of the game.

Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year.&nbsp;

In 2002, he was signed by his hometown club's youth team Dinamo Zagreb at age 16.

After three years, in 2005, he made his debut for Dinamo and won three consecutive league titles and domestic cups, being named the Prva HNL Player of the Year in 2007

In 2008, he earned himself a massive opportunity when he was signed by Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record transfer fee of £16.5 million.

After the crucial move, Modric led Spurs to their first UEFA Champions League appearance in almost 50 years, reaching the quarter-finals of the 2010–11 tournament.

In the summer of 2012, Modric joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee and ever since he continued to flourish as a key player for the Spanish giants.

Luka Modric's journey from Croatian war child to the world's best footballer, a national hero in his home country and crowned the best player on the planet, is world appreciating.

In early years Modric was a child refugee. He flew the burned-out shell of a remote Croatian cottage where he spent part of his childhood.

Hidden in the folds of Velebit mountain, with the nearest neighbours several kilometres away, trees now grow inside the roofless ruin and a sign warns of "Mines - Keep out!"

The player's grandfather, also named Luka, lived in the house, lying on a mountain road winding through the Modrici hamlet.

His grandfather was killed by Serb forces, the house was burned and the family fled to the coastal town of Zadar, some 40 kilometres (19 miles) away.

It was there that Modric, born in 1985, began his footballing odyssey, drawing attention for the first time to his budding abilities. &nbsp;

Modric left Zadar, where he remains a legend, for Dinamo Zagreb in 2000 and then joined English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. After a bidding war he was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2012.

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final.

Luka Modric started the year 2018 with his tremendous performance for Real Madrid and his crucial contributions in the midfield inspired the team to win Champions League after defeating Liverpool in the final. Croatia's star footballer then looked forward to building on the momentum and continued his preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2018. In his leadership, Croatia reached the final of football World Cup for the first time in history, however, the team lost to France in the high-octane clash. Despite the 4-2 defeat by France, more than 500,000 people gave captain Modric and his team a heroic welcome on their return to Croatia's capital city, Zagreb. The 33-year-old Modric is described as a quick and creative playmaker. He believes in promoting goals and very rare shoots off-mark when he attempts to score. With great vision, he tries to change the course of the game with a deft pass, or with a solo, long-range effort. Modric is popular for his ability to pass the ball accurately across long or short distances, his ball control, first touch, positional play, and his ability to retain possession. Very few would know that Modric is able to play with both feet and with the help of his clever moves, he sets the tempo of the game. Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year. In 2002, he was signed by his hometown club's youth team Dinamo Zagreb at age 16. After three years, in 2005, he made his debut for Dinamo and won three consecutive league titles and domestic cups, being named the Prva HNL Player of the Year in 2007 In 2008, he earned himself a massive opportunity when he was signed by Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record transfer fee of £16.5 million. After the crucial move, Modric led Spurs to their first UEFA Champions League appearance in almost 50 years, reaching the quarter-finals of the 2010–11 tournament. In the summer of 2012, Modric joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee and ever since he continued to flourish as a key player for the Spanish giants. Luka Modric's journey from Croatian war child to the world's best footballer, a national hero in his home country and crowned the best player on the planet, is world appreciating. In early years Modric was a child refugee. He flew the burned-out shell of a remote Croatian cottage where he spent part of his childhood. Hidden in the folds of Velebit mountain, with the nearest neighbours several kilometres away, trees now grow inside the roofless ruin and a sign warns of "Mines - Keep out!" The player's grandfather, also named Luka, lived in the house, lying on a mountain road winding through the Modrici hamlet. His grandfather was killed by Serb forces, the house was burned and the family fled to the coastal town of Zadar, some 40 kilometres (19 miles) away. It was there that Modric, born in 1985, began his footballing odyssey, drawing attention for the first time to his budding abilities. Modric left Zadar, where he remains a legend, for Dinamo Zagreb in 2000 and then joined English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. After a bidding war he was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2012.

From football World Cup to Ballon d'Or, year 2018 belongs to Luka Modric

A Croatian pharmacist's refusal to give a customer birth control on moral grounds deepened concern Friday over threats to reproductive rights in the Catholic country, where many doctors in public hospitals also refuse to perform abortions.

The controversy was ignited last month when a young woman told a local fact-checking website Faktograf that a Zagreb pharmacist refused to give her contraceptive pills prescribed by a gynaecologist, citing a "conscientious objection".

"First gynaecologists, now pharmacists, how far this will go?" the young woman was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

The issue sparked outrage among rights groups, who expressed fears it would deter other young women from seeking medical care.

"Patients should not suffer consequences of pharmacists' personal beliefs," Sanja Cerar from CESI, a women's rights association, told AFP.

"In practice, the so-called conscientious objection can reduce people's rights to health protection and violate women's rights," she added.

Activists have long protested how a "conscientious objection" clause written into Croatian law in 2003 is used to deny women's legal right to abortion, in part due to lobbying by Church-backed groups.

Abortion right was legalized in Croatia during the Yugoslav era.

But nearly 60 per cent of public hospital doctors refuse to perform the procedure by invoking the conscientious objection clause, according to estimates.

While Croatia's Health Minister said pharmacists should not be allowed to cite the clause in their line of work, the country's Chamber of Pharmacists disagreed.

"A pharmacist has the right to a conscientious objection only if not endangering patients health and life", the chamber said in reaction to the recent controversy.

In the past five years prescribed drugs were denied only twice over a conscientious objection, it added.

A survey by Index news portal showed that 88 per cent of more than 33,800 people questioned said pharmacists should not have the right to a consciousness objection.

"Everyone is entitled to a conscientious objection but it should apply only to oneself," commented one internet user.

The debate comes at a time when Croatia is due to review its abortion law at the beginning of 2019.

Nearly 90 per cent of Croatia's 4.2 million population are Roman Catholics and the clergy play a powerful role in society.&nbsp;

A Croatian pharmacist's refusal to give a customer birth control on moral grounds deepened concern Friday over threats to reproductive rights in the Catholic country, where many doctors in public hospitals also refuse to perform abortions.

A Croatian pharmacist's refusal to give a customer birth control on moral grounds deepened concern Friday over threats to reproductive rights in the Catholic country, where many doctors in public hospitals also refuse to perform abortions. The controversy was ignited last month when a young woman told a local fact-checking website Faktograf that a Zagreb pharmacist refused to give her contraceptive pills prescribed by a gynaecologist, citing a "conscientious objection". "First gynaecologists, now pharmacists, how far this will go?" the young woman was quoted as saying. The issue sparked outrage among rights groups, who expressed fears it would deter other young women from seeking medical care. "Patients should not suffer consequences of pharmacists' personal beliefs," Sanja Cerar from CESI, a women's rights association, told AFP. "In practice, the so-called conscientious objection can reduce people's rights to health protection and violate women's rights," she added. Activists have long protested how a "conscientious objection" clause written into Croatian law in 2003 is used to deny women's legal right to abortion, in part due to lobbying by Church-backed groups. Abortion right was legalized in Croatia during the Yugoslav era. But nearly 60 per cent of public hospital doctors refuse to perform the procedure by invoking the conscientious objection clause, according to estimates. While Croatia's Health Minister said pharmacists should not be allowed to cite the clause in their line of work, the country's Chamber of Pharmacists disagreed. "A pharmacist has the right to a conscientious objection only if not endangering patients health and life", the chamber said in reaction to the recent controversy. In the past five years prescribed drugs were denied only twice over a conscientious objection, it added. A survey by Index news portal showed that 88 per cent of more than 33,800 people questioned said pharmacists should not have the right to a consciousness objection. "Everyone is entitled to a conscientious objection but it should apply only to oneself," commented one internet user. The debate comes at a time when Croatia is due to review its abortion law at the beginning of 2019. Nearly 90 per cent of Croatia's 4.2 million population are Roman Catholics and the clergy play a powerful role in society.

Croatia pharmacist's refusal to give birth control sparks controversy

Luka Modric: Once a Croatian war child, now king of world football

Real Madrid's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=luka+modric">Luka Modric</a>, FIFA's footballer of the year, will not face charges of giving false testimony in the criminal trial of his former boss at Dinamo Zagreb, who was convicted in June of evading tax and siphoning transfer fees from the club.

A Croatian appeals court rejected a request by prosecutors to have charges reinstated against the Croatian international midfielder that had been thrown out by a lower court.

"The (Zagreb county) court rejected the appeal by the state attorney and confirmed the first-instance decision that there was not a sufficient level of evidence to raise an indictment," the court's spokesman Kresimir Devcic told reporters.

Modric, crowned the Best FIFA Men's Player 2018, testified last year at the trial of a tax official and three former senior officials from Dinamo Zagreb, including its former chief executive Zdravko Mamic.

In June, Mamic was sentenced to six-and-a-half years jail for siphoning millions of dollars in transfer fees from the club, including part of the $16.5 million the club was paid when Modric moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 2008.

Despite his conviction, Mamic is at large and living in Bosnia.

Prosecutors accused Modric of giving false testimony at the trial about the dates when he signed annexes to his professional contracts which covered transfer fees.

In September Croatia's state attorney also charged another Croatia international, Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren, with the same offence as Modric. That case is still pending.

Real Madrid's Luka Modric, FIFA's footballer of the year, will not face charges of giving false testimony in the criminal trial of his former boss at Dinamo Zagreb, who was convicted in June of evading tax and siphoning transfer fees from the club.

Real Madrid's Luka Modric, FIFA's footballer of the year, will not face charges of giving false testimony in the criminal trial of his former boss at Dinamo Zagreb, who was convicted in June of evading tax and siphoning transfer fees from the club. A Croatian appeals court rejected a request by prosecutors to have charges reinstated against the Croatian international midfielder that had been thrown out by a lower court. "The (Zagreb county) court rejected the appeal by the state attorney and confirmed the first-instance decision that there was not a sufficient level of evidence to raise an indictment," the court's spokesman Kresimir Devcic told reporters. Modric, crowned the Best FIFA Men's Player 2018, testified last year at the trial of a tax official and three former senior officials from Dinamo Zagreb, including its former chief executive Zdravko Mamic. In June, Mamic was sentenced to six-and-a-half years jail for siphoning millions of dollars in transfer fees from the club, including part of the $16.5 million the club was paid when Modric moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. Despite his conviction, Mamic is at large and living in Bosnia. Prosecutors accused Modric of giving false testimony at the trial about the dates when he signed annexes to his professional contracts which covered transfer fees. In September Croatia's state attorney also charged another Croatia international, Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren, with the same offence as Modric. That case is still pending.

Croatia court drops false testimony charges against Luka Modric

Real Madrid's Croatian midfielder <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-modric-wins-2018-ballon-dor-breaks-messi-ronaldo-dominance-181279">Luka Modric</a>, winner of the 2018 Ballon d'Or, said that he would exchange all of his individual awards in return of a World Cup.

While interacting with the media, Modric said, "I would change all my individual awards for a World Cup. Unfortunately, it didn't happen, even this success that we achieved in the World Cup, for such a small country as Croatia, is something amazing."

In Pics | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/luka-modric-a-croatian-war-child-who-now-rules-global-football-map-181327">Luka Modric: Once a Croatian war child, now king of world football</a>

Croatian team was hailed for their historic World Cup run in Russia as the Modric-led team reached the final, however, the team lost to France to finish second.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallonDOr?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallonDOr</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/TMBn4GU9wE">pic.twitter.com/TMBn4GU9wE</a>
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"I would change all of this for a World Cup. But how it didn't happen, this is a great feeling to win at least this, and I'm very happy for it."

Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year.

"It's a unique feeling. I'm happy proud and honoured, I have a lot of emotions right now, it's hard to describe in words," said Modric, wearing a tuxedo as he collected the award from presenter and former France forward David Ginola after 2018 Ballon d'Or glamorous ceremony at the Grand Palais in Paris.

"It’s a big pleasure to be here among all these players. I am still trying to realise that I have become part of a group of exceptional players to win the Ballon d’Or throughout history."

The Ballon d’Or was first presented in 1956 and partnered with soccer's world governing body FIFA as 'The Best' award from 2010 to 2015, until becoming its own entity again.

Real Madrid's Croatian midfielder Luka Modric, winner of the 2018 Ballon d'Or, said that he would exchange all of his individual awards in return of a World Cup.

Real Madrid's Croatian midfielder Luka Modric, winner of the 2018 Ballon d'Or, said that he would exchange all of his individual awards in return of a World Cup. While interacting with the media, Modric said, "I would change all my individual awards for a World Cup. Unfortunately, it didn't happen, even this success that we achieved in the World Cup, for such a small country as Croatia, is something amazing." In Pics | Luka Modric: Once a Croatian war child, now king of world football Croatian team was hailed for their historic World Cup run in Russia as the Modric-led team reached the final, however, the team lost to France to finish second. #BallonDOr ❤️ pic.twitter.com/TMBn4GU9wE — Luka Modrić (@lukamodric10) December 4, 2018 × "I would change all of this for a World Cup. But how it didn't happen, this is a great feeling to win at least this, and I'm very happy for it." Luka Modric is the first player in history to be awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, UEFA Men's Player, FIFA Best Men's Player and Ballon d'Or in the same year. "It's a unique feeling. I'm happy proud and honoured, I have a lot of emotions right now, it's hard to describe in words," said Modric, wearing a tuxedo as he collected the award from presenter and former France forward David Ginola after 2018 Ballon d'Or glamorous ceremony at the Grand Palais in Paris. "It’s a big pleasure to be here among all these players. I am still trying to realise that I have become part of a group of exceptional players to win the Ballon d’Or throughout history." The Ballon d’Or was first presented in 1956 and partnered with soccer's world governing body FIFA as 'The Best' award from 2010 to 2015, until becoming its own entity again.

Luka Modric: Would exchange all individual awards for a World Cup

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead.

He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy.

Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final.

"This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here.

"My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced."

Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish.

In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead.

Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory.

"I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night.

"I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won."

Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy.

"It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too.

"It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team."

France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession.

"The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling.

"We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday. Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead. He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy. Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final. "This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here. "My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced." Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish. In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead. Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory. "I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night. "I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won." Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy. "It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too. "It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team." France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession. "The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling. "We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hails his Davis Cup dream team

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday.

The powerful world number seven was relentless as he snuffed out any hope of a famous French fightback - giving Pouille little chance of sending the showpiece into a fifth rubber.

Pouille, 24, did not have a single break point and despite pushing Cilic hard in the first set, he lost the last four points of the tiebreak and never threatened a comeback.

Cilic wasted four set points when Pouille battled back from 0-40 down at 2-5 in the second set but with his own serve rock-solid, he calmly moved into a two-set lead.

The mainly French 22,000 crowd kept roaring their support for Pouille, but it was the Croatia contingent, decked out in their distinctive red and white, who would soon be celebrating.

Cilic broke for a 3-2 lead in the third set and then closed in for the kill when Pouille served at 3-5.

The Frenchman saved two match points from 0-40 but Cilic would not be denied and finished it off with a lob.

Immediately the 30-year-old former US&nbsp;Open champion was swamped by a swarm of his teammates as Croatia could begin the party after emulating their triumph of 2005.

Croatia's sports-mad President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic was among the fans at courtside to savour a landmark title which offered some consolation after France beat Croatia in this year's soccer World Cup final.

"It's not every day that you become a world champion," Cilic, draped in a Croatian flag, said on court.

"For us it's a dream come true, for this nation. You can see the fans are so passionate and they are here enjoying themselves. In Croatia it's going to be incredible too."

Croatia will enter the history books as winners of the last final played in the traditional format before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp.

Next November a new format will see 18 teams assemble in Madrid for a World Cup-style event to decide the champions.

Hosts and defending champions France had begun the day still holding out hope of becoming the first team to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the final since Australia beat the US&nbsp;in 1939.

But there was to be no fairytale ending for French captain Yannick Noah in his last match in charge of Les Bleus.

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday.

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday. The powerful world number seven was relentless as he snuffed out any hope of a famous French fightback - giving Pouille little chance of sending the showpiece into a fifth rubber. Pouille, 24, did not have a single break point and despite pushing Cilic hard in the first set, he lost the last four points of the tiebreak and never threatened a comeback. Cilic wasted four set points when Pouille battled back from 0-40 down at 2-5 in the second set but with his own serve rock-solid, he calmly moved into a two-set lead. The mainly French 22,000 crowd kept roaring their support for Pouille, but it was the Croatia contingent, decked out in their distinctive red and white, who would soon be celebrating. Cilic broke for a 3-2 lead in the third set and then closed in for the kill when Pouille served at 3-5. The Frenchman saved two match points from 0-40 but Cilic would not be denied and finished it off with a lob. Immediately the 30-year-old former US Open champion was swamped by a swarm of his teammates as Croatia could begin the party after emulating their triumph of 2005. Croatia's sports-mad President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic was among the fans at courtside to savour a landmark title which offered some consolation after France beat Croatia in this year's soccer World Cup final. "It's not every day that you become a world champion," Cilic, draped in a Croatian flag, said on court. "For us it's a dream come true, for this nation. You can see the fans are so passionate and they are here enjoying themselves. In Croatia it's going to be incredible too." Croatia will enter the history books as winners of the last final played in the traditional format before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp. Next November a new format will see 18 teams assemble in Madrid for a World Cup-style event to decide the champions. Hosts and defending champions France had begun the day still holding out hope of becoming the first team to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the final since Australia beat the US in 1939. But there was to be no fairytale ending for French captain Yannick Noah in his last match in charge of Les Bleus.

Marin Cilic beats Pouille to win Davis Cup for Croatia

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly.

Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic.

It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead.

Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy.

Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last.

The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down.

It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time.

Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday.

Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one.

Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail.

"We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said.

"We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow."

Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb.

"We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side.

"Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!"

It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two.

But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling.

From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set.

At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way.

French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5.

When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other.

Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5.

Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue.

They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format. On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic. It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead. Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy. Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last. The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down. It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time. Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday. Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one. Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail. "We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said. "We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow." Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb. "We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side. "Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!" It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two. But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling. From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set. At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way. French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5. When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other. Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5. Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue. They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

France stay alive in Davis Cup final after doubles win

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible.

France captain Yannick Noah's odd choice of Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the opening singles rubbers backfired spectacularly as Croatia built a 2-0 lead inside the huge Stade Pierre Mauroy - home to Lille's soccer club.

Coric gave Croatia a flying start with an emphatic 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 win over Chardy and the 33-year-old Tsonga, out for most of the season after knee surgery, was pummelled 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 by world number seven Cilic.

Croatia need to win one of the three remaining rubbers to claim a repeat of their 2005 Davis Cup triumph while French hopes of extending the contest to Sunday now rest with doubles pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Noah will end his third stint in charge of the French team after the final but his hopes of signing off with a fourth title for Les Blues are in tatters.

No side has overturned a 2-0 deficit in a Davis Cup final since Australia beat the United States in 1939.

There was an end-of-era feel during the build-up to the final -- the last before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp next year.

Whatever the future holds it did not detract from the electric atmosphere under the closed roof of a stadium hosting its third Davis Cup final in five years.

Few fans are more passionate about the Davis Cup than France's and they cranked up the volume with their choreographed chanting as the players walked on court for the anthems, accompanied by fireworks and spotlights.

Freezing tires

But it was the large block of Croatians perched high up in the freezing upper tiers who had more to sing about.

Coric broke serve after an 11-minute opening game in which Chardy led 40-0 and won 15 points in a row on his way to taking the first set on the indoor claycourt.

Noah's pep talks galvanised Chardy in the second set and his booming forehand finally gave him a toe-hold in the match.

But Coric was relentless and at 5-5 he forged three break points after some terrific scrambling and Chardy, who had saved break points at 3-3, succumbed with a weak backhand.

Coric left the court for a medical timeout leading 4-3 with a break of serve in the third set but he showed no ill-effects from a hamstring twinge on his return and finished the job.

Cilic rammed home Croatia's advantage with a performance of brute force.

No amount cajoling from Noah or support from the blue-clad fans could help former world number five Tsonga fend off the mighty attacks of Cilic.

Only briefly, when he had two points for a 5-3 led in the second set, did Tsonga threaten to make it a real contest.

But Cilic snuffed out that danger and turned up the power on his forehand to break at 5-5 before holding for a two-set lead.

Tsonga appeared to twist awkwardly midway through the third set when he was a breakdown. After disappearing for the treatment he returned more in hope than expectation and Cilic duly sealed victory, bashing away a smash on match point.

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible.

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible. France captain Yannick Noah's odd choice of Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the opening singles rubbers backfired spectacularly as Croatia built a 2-0 lead inside the huge Stade Pierre Mauroy - home to Lille's soccer club. Coric gave Croatia a flying start with an emphatic 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 win over Chardy and the 33-year-old Tsonga, out for most of the season after knee surgery, was pummelled 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 by world number seven Cilic. Croatia need to win one of the three remaining rubbers to claim a repeat of their 2005 Davis Cup triumph while French hopes of extending the contest to Sunday now rest with doubles pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert. Noah will end his third stint in charge of the French team after the final but his hopes of signing off with a fourth title for Les Blues are in tatters. No side has overturned a 2-0 deficit in a Davis Cup final since Australia beat the United States in 1939. There was an end-of-era feel during the build-up to the final -- the last before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp next year. Whatever the future holds it did not detract from the electric atmosphere under the closed roof of a stadium hosting its third Davis Cup final in five years. Few fans are more passionate about the Davis Cup than France's and they cranked up the volume with their choreographed chanting as the players walked on court for the anthems, accompanied by fireworks and spotlights. Freezing tires But it was the large block of Croatians perched high up in the freezing upper tiers who had more to sing about. Coric broke serve after an 11-minute opening game in which Chardy led 40-0 and won 15 points in a row on his way to taking the first set on the indoor claycourt. Noah's pep talks galvanised Chardy in the second set and his booming forehand finally gave him a toe-hold in the match. But Coric was relentless and at 5-5 he forged three break points after some terrific scrambling and Chardy, who had saved break points at 3-3, succumbed with a weak backhand. Coric left the court for a medical timeout leading 4-3 with a break of serve in the third set but he showed no ill-effects from a hamstring twinge on his return and finished the job. Cilic rammed home Croatia's advantage with a performance of brute force. No amount cajoling from Noah or support from the blue-clad fans could help former world number five Tsonga fend off the mighty attacks of Cilic. Only briefly, when he had two points for a 5-3 led in the second set, did Tsonga threaten to make it a real contest. But Cilic snuffed out that danger and turned up the power on his forehand to break at 5-5 before holding for a two-set lead. Tsonga appeared to twist awkwardly midway through the third set when he was a breakdown. After disappearing for the treatment he returned more in hope than expectation and Cilic duly sealed victory, bashing away a smash on match point.

Coric, Cilic put Croatia in charge of Davis Cup final

England striker Harry Kane on Sunday led his national team to rally from a one-goal deficit and beat Croatia 2-1, booking a place in the UEFA Nations League finals as the winners of League A Group 4.

The defeat sends 2018 FIFA World Cup runner-up Croatia down to League B, the second tier of the first-ever edition of the new men's tournament while denying Spain a berth in the finals, as La Roja had to settle for the second spot.

England was keen to earn the win and made that clear in the early going, as attacking midfielder Raheem Sterling was set up for a one-on-one situation against Croatia goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic, who made the save.

Shortly after, Kalinic nearly cost his team a goal when he tried to prevent the ball from reaching Kane but exposed his goal instead.

Kane's shot at the wide-open goal was cleared by a Croatia player off the goal line, and then Kalinic, who recovered his position, saved his second attempt on the goal.

Midway through the first half, the momentum shifted as Croatia seized control of the ball, trying to threaten Jordan Pickford's goal, but the game remained scoreless at the half.

On Croatia's first real attempt in the second half, substitute forward Josip Brekalo passed the ball to attacking midfielder Andrej Kramaric, who dribbled around several players inside the area before putting the ball home in the 57th minute.

The Three Lions, however, did not give up as they pushed for a comeback and coach Gareth Southgate sent Jadon Sancho and Jesse Lingard onto the field.

Southgate's changes proved to be decisive as Lingard drew his team level after he was set up for the goal by Kane in the 78th minute.&nbsp;

With four minutes to go before second-half stoppage time, Kane struck his first Nations League goal, sealing the win.

England striker Harry Kane on Sunday led his national team to rally from a one-goal deficit and beat Croatia 2-1, booking a place in the UEFA Nations League finals as the winners of League A Group 4.

England striker Harry Kane on Sunday led his national team to rally from a one-goal deficit and beat Croatia 2-1, booking a place in the UEFA Nations League finals as the winners of League A Group 4. The defeat sends 2018 FIFA World Cup runner-up Croatia down to League B, the second tier of the first-ever edition of the new men's tournament while denying Spain a berth in the finals, as La Roja had to settle for the second spot. England was keen to earn the win and made that clear in the early going, as attacking midfielder Raheem Sterling was set up for a one-on-one situation against Croatia goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic, who made the save. Shortly after, Kalinic nearly cost his team a goal when he tried to prevent the ball from reaching Kane but exposed his goal instead. Kane's shot at the wide-open goal was cleared by a Croatia player off the goal line, and then Kalinic, who recovered his position, saved his second attempt on the goal. Midway through the first half, the momentum shifted as Croatia seized control of the ball, trying to threaten Jordan Pickford's goal, but the game remained scoreless at the half. On Croatia's first real attempt in the second half, substitute forward Josip Brekalo passed the ball to attacking midfielder Andrej Kramaric, who dribbled around several players inside the area before putting the ball home in the 57th minute. The Three Lions, however, did not give up as they pushed for a comeback and coach Gareth Southgate sent Jadon Sancho and Jesse Lingard onto the field. Southgate's changes proved to be decisive as Lingard drew his team level after he was set up for the goal by Kane in the 78th minute. With four minutes to go before second-half stoppage time, Kane struck his first Nations League goal, sealing the win.

Harry Kane leads England to beat Croatia 2-1, advance to Nations League finals

England's boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=gareth+southgate">Gareth Southgate</a> said that it is becoming very difficult to pick a squad due to the presence of extremely talented players in the team. While he also added that it's a "good sign" for the future of 'The Three Lions' because there is a competition for every single spot.

"Yeah, it's becoming increasingly difficult to pick a squad and increasingly difficult to pick a team and that's a really good sign because we have competition for places," said Southgate.

England will face a winner-takes-all UEFA Nations League clash with Croatia on Sunday (November 18).

It will give some idea of how far the team have come since they lost to the same opponents in the last four in the FIFA World Cup 2018.

"Some young players who've emerged since the summer and even with missing Kieran Trippier and Harry Maguire from the squad in the summer in particular, young players have come through and done well in those positions and in other positions so the only way to avoid complacency and keep driving performances I believe is to have that competition," he added.

World Cup finalists Croatia beat Spain on Thursday (November 15) to blow the Nations League Group A4 wide open, meaning victory for either Croatia or England at Wembley will seal top spot in the standings, and a place in the Nations League finals next year.

The victory will secure progress to next summer's Nations League Finals and a semi-final spot, while the defeated side will be relegated from the top tier after an exciting first edition of the previously derided competition.

A full house will greet the sides for the Group A4 finale, when England have the chance to exact revenge for the extra-time 2-1 defeat to Croatia in July's World Cup semi-final.

England's boss Gareth Southgate said that it is becoming very difficult to pick a squad due to the presence of extremely talented players in the team. While he also added that it's a "good sign" for the future of 'The Three Lions' because there is a competition for every single spot.

England's boss Gareth Southgate said that it is becoming very difficult to pick a squad due to the presence of extremely talented players in the team. While he also added that it's a "good sign" for the future of 'The Three Lions' because there is a competition for every single spot. "Yeah, it's becoming increasingly difficult to pick a squad and increasingly difficult to pick a team and that's a really good sign because we have competition for places," said Southgate. England will face a winner-takes-all UEFA Nations League clash with Croatia on Sunday (November 18). It will give some idea of how far the team have come since they lost to the same opponents in the last four in the FIFA World Cup 2018. "Some young players who've emerged since the summer and even with missing Kieran Trippier and Harry Maguire from the squad in the summer in particular, young players have come through and done well in those positions and in other positions so the only way to avoid complacency and keep driving performances I believe is to have that competition," he added. World Cup finalists Croatia beat Spain on Thursday (November 15) to blow the Nations League Group A4 wide open, meaning victory for either Croatia or England at Wembley will seal top spot in the standings, and a place in the Nations League finals next year. The victory will secure progress to next summer's Nations League Finals and a semi-final spot, while the defeated side will be relegated from the top tier after an exciting first edition of the previously derided competition. A full house will greet the sides for the Group A4 finale, when England have the chance to exact revenge for the extra-time 2-1 defeat to Croatia in July's World Cup semi-final.

Gareth Southgate says, 'difficult to pick a squad' due to quality players

Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic will miss the winner-takes-all Nations League game against England at Wembley on Sunday due to injury, manager Zlatko Dalic said on Friday.

Barcelona's Rakitic came off in the 67th minute of the 3-2 home win over Spain on Thursday which gave Croatia the chance to top League A Group 4 and claim a place in next year's four-team finals.

"He will go to Barcelona, it's a serious injury. You know that I usually take no risk. If there is a doubt that the injury could be serious, then we let him rest," Dalic told Sky Sports.

He did not specify the injury but Rakitic left the pitch in Zagreb suffering discomfort in the back of his right thigh.

"We want healthy players and Ivan in this moment is not 100 percent ready. Unfortunately, we are going to play without him."

Rakitic, 30, has played 102 games for Croatia but Dalic said they have players capable of filling in.

"We will see who will replace him. We have (Mateo) Kovacic, we have (Josip) Brekalo, we have (Milan) Badelj," he added.

"There is always a solution and we should stop whining about someone who's not going to be there. We will find a solution and we are going to Wembley to enjoy football."

The winners of Sunday's game will qualify for the Nations League semi-finals with the losers being relegated to League B. A draw would see leaders Spain clinch top spot in Group 4.

Rakitic is suspended for La Liga leaders Barca's next game on Nov. 24 at third-placed Atletico Madrid, who trail by a point, after being sent off in the home defeat by Real Betis on Sunday.

Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic will miss the winner-takes-all Nations League game against England at Wembley on Sunday due to injury, manager Zlatko Dalic said on Friday.

Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic will miss the winner-takes-all Nations League game against England at Wembley on Sunday due to injury, manager Zlatko Dalic said on Friday. Barcelona's Rakitic came off in the 67th minute of the 3-2 home win over Spain on Thursday which gave Croatia the chance to top League A Group 4 and claim a place in next year's four-team finals. "He will go to Barcelona, it's a serious injury. You know that I usually take no risk. If there is a doubt that the injury could be serious, then we let him rest," Dalic told Sky Sports. He did not specify the injury but Rakitic left the pitch in Zagreb suffering discomfort in the back of his right thigh. "We want healthy players and Ivan in this moment is not 100 percent ready. Unfortunately, we are going to play without him." Rakitic, 30, has played 102 games for Croatia but Dalic said they have players capable of filling in. "We will see who will replace him. We have (Mateo) Kovacic, we have (Josip) Brekalo, we have (Milan) Badelj," he added. "There is always a solution and we should stop whining about someone who's not going to be there. We will find a solution and we are going to Wembley to enjoy football." The winners of Sunday's game will qualify for the Nations League semi-finals with the losers being relegated to League B. A draw would see leaders Spain clinch top spot in Group 4. Rakitic is suspended for La Liga leaders Barca's next game on Nov. 24 at third-placed Atletico Madrid, who trail by a point, after being sent off in the home defeat by Real Betis on Sunday.

Croatia midfielder Rakitic out of England Nations League game

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