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‘Respect the legend!’: Tributes rain down on Luka Modric following Croatia’s semi-final loss to Argentina, with fans wondering if the legendary midfielder will ever be seen again at a World Cup.
Soccer fans praised Luka Modric after Croatia knocked out the World Cup against Argentina, and the tournament in Qatar is likely to be the last for the legendary midfielder.
Zlatko Dalic’s side crashed out against the South Americans in the semi-final, losing 3-0 thanks to a brace from Julián Álvarez and a penalty from Lionel Messi.
Croatia will face Morocco or France in the play-off game for third place on Saturday, but their semi-final exit left many fans wondering if Tuesday’s match would be the last we’ll see of Modric in a World Cup. World.
Fans praised Luka Modric as Croatia crashed out of the World Cup after a semi-final loss to Argentina.
Many questioned whether the legendary midfielder would be seen again in a World Cup
The Real Madrid midfielder had put in several excellent performances in his run to the semi-finals in Qatar, with Croatia backing up his performance in Russia four years ago when they reached the final, only to lose to France.
In fact, despite competing in the World Cup on just six occasions, the Balkan nation has made it to the final four on three occasions.
Modric, who has played 161 caps for his country since his debut in 2006, participated in the 2006, 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups, with Croatia failing to qualify for the 2010 edition.
He was replaced by Lovro Majer after 81 minutes during their clash with Argentina and fans were quick to praise the midfielder and his achievements during his legendary international career.
One said: ‘Modric, you are also a legend, king, you have nothing to be sad about, Croatia should be proud of you.’
Fans praised the midfielder’s career and World Cup performances.
Another added: “Luka Modric and his boys should be proud of the run they’ve had in this edition of the World Cup!”
Another supporter explained that he was not Modric’s biggest supporter, but wanted to highlight the veteran’s achievements.
They said: ‘I’ve never been a big Modric fan, but what a career man. If this is really his last World Cup, he should be incredibly proud. What a player, what a career.’
More tributes poured in from elsewhere as one said: “Fair play to Croatia and the legend Luka Modric.”
Another quipped: ‘Respect the legend! Well done Modric.
A final fan selected a moment when Modric withdrew during the game and received an excellent reception from both sets of supporters.
They said: ‘A standing ovation for Luka Modric from the fans of Croatia and Argentina in the semi-final. Legend.’
Modric came on for Lovro Majer in the 81st minute and received a standing ovation from the fans.
They were quick to highlight Modric’s legendary status and brilliant playing career, and the midfielder is unlikely to appear in the main tournament again in the future.
Modric has scored 23 goals in his 161 caps while also representing his nation at the European Championships in 2008, 2012, 2016 and 2020, meaning he has competed in eight major tournaments for his country.
The 37-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant career at the club, winning 21 trophies in his 10 years with Real Madrid, including five Champions Leagues.
Modric also won the Ballon d’Or in 2018 following his sensational efforts at the 2018 World Cup, highlighting his legendary status.