Croatian coach slams slack players
ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) -- Croatian coach Otto Baric interrupted training and scolded his players for showing a lack of discipline ahead of a do-or-die clash with Bulgaria in a Euro 2004 qualifying match on Saturday.
"I was upset and disappointed with the conduct of most of the players," said Baric."It was irritating to see them so aloof, jesting about and chatting about their seaside holidays."
"There is no room for that sort of nonchalance, not ahead of such a crucial match.'
I gave them a sharp dressing down and sent them into the lockers. It's better to abandon training than have it turned into a joke," he added.
Croatia plays host to Bulgaria in the last match of Group 8. The Bulgarians have already clinched an automatic berth in the finals of the European Championship in Portugal next year, while the Croats must win or earn a better result than Belgium, which plays Estonia, if they are to squeeze into the playoffs.
Baric has a fit team, missing only versatile midfielder Niko Kovac and sturdy defender Stjepan Tomas through suspension.
Liverpool stopper Igor Biscan has been recalled to the side after a long hiatus due to lack of form, while Juventus mainstay Igor Tudor has finally shrugged off a list of nagging injuries to buffer the defense.
Baric's biggest fear is that complacency might creep into his side as the Bulgarians have already secured the finals and can afford to play without the imperative of victory.
"We have to get it out of our heads. There will be no gifts on Saturday," Baric warned, saying that Tuesday would be reserved for lectures on game plans.
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