World Cup

Luka Modric: 'England good at set pieces'

By Jonny Whitfield, Reporter | 08 July 2018

Croatia midfielder Luka Modric says that his side will be wary of England's set-piece threat when the sides meet on Wednesday evening.

Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has said that his side will be wary of England's set-piece threat when the sides meet on Wednesday evening.

The Three Lions have been impressive from dead-ball situations at the tournament, with Harry Maguire's header against Sweden the eighth goal to be scored from a set piece by England in Russia.

Modric has admitted that his side must improve their awareness from corners and free kicks after Croatia were pegged back in extra time by Mario Fernandes's header in their last-eight tie.

"We expect a very difficult, tight and demanding match against England, like every match at the World Cup," the 32-year-old told reporters. "We have to enjoy the moment and we then have to focus on England. I'm sure we will prepare well.

"We watched the game today and saw how good they are from dead-ball situations. We will have to improve on our set-piece defending between now and Wednesday as we conceded from one at the end of the game today."

France and Belgium will contest the other semi-final on Tuesday evening.