In the early hours of Wednesday morning (22nd), the final round of the Europa League qualifiers was in full swing, and Group D's Croatia managed to leapfrog Wales and lock up second place in the group, advancing directly to the next round after a narrow 1-0 win over Armenia thanks to their home turf. This means for 38-year-old veteran Modi Calendar that he has a chance to challenge for international tournament title honors next year.
Prior to the match, Croatia was only two points ahead of third-placed Wales. Given the unfavorable head-to-head record between the two teams, Croatia had to win to ensure qualification. Fittingly, in the 43rd minute of the first half, Croatia's striker Andi Budimea struck a precise shot to seal the win. Croatia's victory certainly delighted captain Modi Ric, as the midfielder fought hard all game long and showed energy beyond his years. Since making his debut for Croatia in 2006, Modi Ric has experienced a number of major tournaments, including assisting Croatia in the last two World Cups where they finished second and third respectively. In June, they lost out on the title after exchanging 12-yard shots with Spain in the UEFA Nations League final.
Modi has won La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles for Real Madrid in his club career, but has not been able to make a mark in the national team. The Croatian team's thrilling progress to the final week of the UEFA Europa League has also revived the veteran's hopes. Rumored to be interested in accepting an offer to join the Saudi club, Modi Cali is widely believed to quit the national team after this UEFA Europa League and head to the Middle East to seek new development opportunities.
