Croatia’s World Cup heroes given a festive homecoming

In scenes reminiscent of the previous finals in 2018 when Croatia also claimed third place, Zagreb erupted with mass celebrations, fireworks and flag-waving. This time, however, the heroes’ welcome coincided with Advent festivities around the capital, so personal appearances by the Vatreni were backdropped by Christmas illuminations.

Special cheers went up for 20-year-old defender Joško Gvardiol, the breakout star of this World Cup, and veteran captain Luka Modrić, who belied his 37 years with a string of outstanding performances. The Zadar-born star also pledged himself to staying with the national team until next year at least, vowing that one day the Vatreni will bring home a trophy for the crowds to celebrate.