Tottenham's new signing Luka Modric is calling for a much improved performance ahead of Croatia's crucial group match against Germany this evening.
Croatia beat Austria 1-0 in their opening game but were under pressure for vast swathes of the second half by limited, yet industrious, opponents. Despite this, Modric believes his side have the ability to overcome tournament favourites Germany.
"We have a lot of confidence," Modric said. "Despite the poor second half against Austria, I am convinced that we can do well against Germany."
The creative midfielder was also critical of his own performance.
"My performance fell well short in the second half, like the rest of the team.
"But I love the big challenges and play better when under pressure. This game is exactly what I like."
Despite not captaining the Croatians ,Modric appears at ease with his role as figurehead of the team. His willingness to call for focus from his teammates will encourage officials at Tottenham, who believe they have signed one of the best young players in Europe.
That belief is held by his international coach, Slaven Bilic, who has called on his talismanic compatriot to shine over the next few weeks.
Bilic said: "I have told him that I expect him to be the best player at the tournament - not to put more weight on his shoulders but because I mean it."
"He is going to get better every day, in this tournament and in his career.
"Luka is the type of player who can play anywhere in the midfield - up front or more defensively.
"He is our best player, without him we would be half of what we are.
Bilic's point regarding Modric's ability to play defensively is interesting. Against Austria he demonstrated his capacity for keeping possession and when his team were under pressure he was not afraid to reign in his adventurous nature and defend. It is that sort of mentality that bodes well for his potential success in English football.
Firstly he'll have to negotiate a midfield packed full of gifted players. How he copes against Germans may well prove how well he will cope with his new club.