Celtic defender Josip Juranovic’s World Cup dream is still alive after Croatia got past Brazil to reach the semi-final.
The Hoops right-back put in a terrific display throughout, and was picked out for some special television praise at half-time of the match.
Match broadcasters BBC chose to focus on the Hoops right-back, with a designated highlights package, following a sensational first-half display.
Described as “the best player in that first-half” by host Mark Chapman, Juranovic was spoken about for a good portion of the interval.
Former Germany international Jürgen Klinsmann described Juranovic as ‘telling Vinicius Junior ‘I am in charge here, I’m the boss.'”
The Real Madrid superstar may have felt the same way when subbed off after 64 minutes.
Juranovic was good throughout the match, but it was his first-half performance that really caught the eye.
His boundless energy and composure under pressure really stood out, with Vinicius and Neymar spending more time chasing back than going forward.
When the former got one opportunity to advance, Celtic’s defender outpaced and then dispossessed him.
Juranovic wasn’t quite as prominent from the second-half onwards but he didn’t put a foot wrong throughout.
When it came to penalties, Croatia netted all four of their spot-kicks while Brazil missed two. Juranovic didn’t take any, but may well be required in future rounds if recent history is anything to go by.
Celtic have a player in the semi-final of the World Cup, and we should all take immense pride in that.
Juranovic’s display is likely to have added millions on to his transfer value, and will have another chance to add more on Tuesday night.
In other news, Celtic are set to take on a familiar face from the recent past tomorrow
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