Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has paid tribute to Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan ahead of his side’s crucial Group L encounter with the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the former striker as one of the best forwards he has coached.
Croatia head into the fixture needing to avoid defeat if they are to keep alive their hopes of reaching the Round of 32, while Ghana have already secured qualification after opening their campaign with a victory over Panama before drawing with England.
Speaking before the match, Dalic reflected on his time working alongside Gyan during their spell together at UAE club Al Ain, where the pair spent two years.
The Croatia coach praised the former Sunderland forward’s qualities, highlighting both his physical presence and his ability to influence matches in the final third.
“Our cooperation was excellent for two years at Al Ain. He is a robust striker, excellent in the air and in the attacking phase,” Dalic said.
Dalic believes Gyan’s achievements offer a clear indication of the quality associated with Ghanaian football and suggested Croatia face a demanding challenge against the Black Stars.
“If we judge by him, then Ghana is an excellent national team. He scored goals consistently and made a big difference. We have a tough task ahead of us,” he added.
The comments come as Croatia prepare for a match that will determine whether they remain in the competition.
After beginning their World Cup campaign with defeat, Croatia responded by defeating Panama to keep their qualification hopes intact. However, another positive result is required if they are to continue their journey into the knockout phase.
Ghana, by contrast, have already done enough to book their place in the Round of 32. A 1-0 victory over Panama, followed by a draw against England, ensured the Black Stars progressed before their final Group L fixture.
Dalic’s praise for Gyan also reflects the impact the former Ghana captain made during his playing career.
Having worked closely with him at club level, the Croatian coach said Gyan consistently demonstrated the qualities that made him one of Africa’s most accomplished forwards, with his strength, aerial ability and attacking influence standing out throughout their time together.
Gyan’s record on football’s biggest stage further underlines that reputation. He remains Africa’s all-time leading scorer at the FIFA World Cup, with six goals across his tournament appearances.
As Croatia prepare for one of the defining matches of their campaign, Dalic has acknowledged both the challenge posed by the current Ghana side and the lasting impression left on him by one of the country’s greatest footballers.
His remarks underline the respect Croatia have for their opponents as they seek the result needed to extend their stay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
