Nizhny Novgorod (Russia): Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel said Sunday he is proud of his team despite their failure to reach the World Cup quarterfinals after a disappointing shootout loss to Croatia.
On the other hand, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic stated after the game that they will have to improve sufficiently in their quarterfinal against Russia.
Kasper watched from the VIP box by his dad Peter Schmeichel, who also played for Denmark in the World Cup, was chosen as the man of the match for his superb saves. “
Missing a penalty, that’s nothing. Every player misses it. What was fascinating was his (Mordic’s) determination to score in the shootout. Can you imagine what would have been if he had failed to score
Zlatko Dalic – On Luka Modric
Today (Sunday) we had opportunities, and we were better in the second half and in extra-time. But we didn’t have luck. It is difficult to accept that and to put it into words,” Schmeichel said at a post-match conference.
“It’s a strange feeling, (a) huge disappointment, but also enormous pride about our team, not only the 11 people on the pitch, but also everyone involved or working for the team,” the 31-year-old added.
When asked about whether he felt let down by teammates who missed penalties in the shootout, Schmeichel said that anyone who stood up and took the penalty is a hero to him and has his respect.
“We win, we lose, as a team. This is a fantastic team, which I’m proud of. It’s important that we remember this feeling, and we use it in the future,” Kasper asserted.
We win, we lose, as a team. I’m proud of this team. It’s important that we remember this feeling, it will help in future
Kasper Schmeichel
Meanwhile Dalic was the first to accept that they had played a very difficult game and that the Danes had frustrated Croatia to a great extent with their disciplined approach.
“I think this can only get us closer together and make us stronger. After you win such a game, you know you are worth it. And my faith in my players is also stronger,” Dalic said.
Dalic also spoke highly of goalkeeper Danijel Subasic. “(Our) goalkeeper is our hero tonight. He saved three penalties. You don’t see that every night. Great thanks to him,” Dalic said.
