Sunday Jun 04 2006 11:25
Croatia coach Zlatko Kranjcar was upbeat despite seeing his side beaten 1-0 in a friendly by fellow World Cup finalists Poland.
A second-half goal by Ebi Smolarek proved to be the decider in Wolfsburg, but Kranjcar saw plenty to keep him smiling.
He told Jutarnji List daily: "We were the dominant team, but did not manage to score.
"I'm still content as we're fully prepared for the showdown with Brazil.
"We have to take into account our players were slightly tired following intensive training sessions and also that some were still feeling exhausted after a mild viral infection.
"Our preparations are not for Austria, Iran or Poland but for Brazil, Japan and Australia.
"Friendlies are there just to check what should be improved. I'm convinced we will get through the group stage."
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