Livakovic: Modric is the leader who leads by example. Now the goalkeeper is the first organizer

Croatian goalkeeper Livakovic accepted an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, during which he recalled his experience in the last World Cup and talked about the glory of the national team.

In the last World Cup round of 16 against Japan, Livakovic saved three penalty kicks and became the team's hero. When their match against Brazil entered a penalty shootout, the world's eyes were focused on him.

"You don't want to let anyone down, I just try to stay focused, don't think too much, and give it all."

"There is no secret, it's a combination of preparation, intuition and calmness. Before the competition, I will study all the players who punished the penalty with the analyst. But at that moment, you also need to understand the opponent's body language and believe in your feelings."

He saved Rodrigo's first penalty, and when Marginhos missed the fourth penalty, Croatia successfully advanced to the semi-finals.

In the end, Croatia won the third place in Qatar, an amazing achievement for a country with a population of less than four million and continued their brilliant performance in 2018.

"The jersey of the Croatian national team is sacred to all Croatians. It represents the country as a supreme honor, and our unity is the real key. Every time we step on the court, we represent something greater."

"This kind of fighting and unity, whether in the team or between the fans, can take you further, sometimes even more important than economic resources or population size. What you need is a deep football culture and trust in the people."

The world football is getting younger and younger, and many young stars are making their mark, but the Croatian team is full of veterans, which proves the importance of experience in the game, especially in the championship. Their leader Modric is a manifestation of this spirit, and the 39-year-old midfielder still sets an example for his teammates.

"Luca is a leader who leads by example on and off the court. His professionalism and work attitude drives the people around him to be better. He is not only a legend, but still one of our most important players, and we are lucky to have him."

Regarding the World Cup qualifiers, Livakovic said: "Our primary goal is to advance, otherwise nothing will make sense. Once we enter the main game, the next step is to strive for the group qualifying. We know our abilities, but we also respect the process. As long as we stay focused and united, everything is possible."

At the transfer deadline, Livakovic joined Girona on loan from Fenerbahce, and he is full of expectations for his first time playing in Spain. "I have had some good moments, but I feel there are more opportunities waiting for me."

"Will you come to the Premier League one day in the future? There was some interest in the past, but there was no agreement at the time. Now that I have joined Girona and come to La Liga, I am completely focused on this new chapter. It's a highly competitive league and I'm excited to prove myself here."

"The role of goalkeepers has changed a lot, and today's goalkeepers are not just the ones blocking the shot, we are the first organizers. I'm often involved in starting off the backcourt, staying calm and making the right pass decisions. It requires concentration and communication. But what remains unchanged is the core responsibility to make saves when the team needs you."