The Barcelona star has paid tribute to a domestic rival from Real Madrid as a united nation go in search of glory at Russia 2018
Ivan Rakitic heaped praise on Croatia captain Luka Modric as he reiterated the desire to repay the Real Madrid star heading into Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Russia.
Rakitic lauded Modric as Croatia trumped Denmark in a dramatic penalty shoot-out to reach the last eight of the showpiece tournament, revealing he told his team-mates they had to give something back to the 32-year-old midfielder.
And Barcelona's Rakitic was glowing in his praise of Modric – who missed a penalty in extra time but converted from the spot during the shoot-out – again on the eve of Croatia's clash at Fisht Stadium in Sochi.