Celtic defender Josip Juranovic produced an excellent display at right-back for Croatia today, in a crucial World Cup qualifier at home to Russia.
It was all or nothing for Juranovic and his team. A win against the Russians would propel them to the World Cup as automatic qualifiers. A draw or defeat would see them go through to a playoff round.
Thankfully for the Celtic man, his team came out victorious 1-0 thanks to late own goal. The summer signing is off to the World Cup next year!
Juranovic had been subbed off by the time the goal went in, as Croatia substituted on forwards and wingers to gamble for the goal they needed in the 75th minute.
Up to that point, however, the right-back was in stunning form. Played in his natural position, he was a consistent threat for the home side, marauding down the flank and consistently putting dangerous balls into the box.
Only global superstar Luka Modric had a higher rating on stat-tracking app FotMob, with Juranovic’s numbers highlighting how effective he was.
Two-thirds of his accurate passes were in the opposition half. He created five chances in total, more than anyone else on the pitch.
It bodes well for his return to Celtic where he’ll be competing for one of the wing-back slots, on the right or left of the Bhoys defence.
On today’s showing, there’s an argument he should be deployed on the right. However, with a lack of options on the left and Anthony Ralston in such good form too, it’s desirable to have them both in the team.
These fans took to social media today to share their thoughts on the Croatian’s performance…
In other news, Referee who failed to punish recent Celtic Park flashpoint given Bhoys semi-final.
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