Dalić's 4-2-3-1 is built entirely around midfield control, with the iconic partnership of Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić as the double pivot. At 40 years old and 196 caps, Modrić (now at AC Milan) brings unmatched experience and game intelligence. The transition question is critical: when Modrić eventually tires, Croatia's entire tactical identity changes. Gvardiol provides a modern dimension at left-back — at Man City he plays a hybrid CB/LB role pushing extremely high, and for Croatia he provides overlapping width. The striker position features Ante Budimir (Osasuna), a target man who offers aerial threat but less mobility than some alternatives.