Ivan Rakitic has claimed that the “best team went home” following Croatia’s last-16 exit from Euro 2016 against Portugal on Saturday.
Ricardo Quaresma’s rebounded finish in extra time earned Portugal a 1-0 win against Croatia, who had hit the post prior to being counterattacked, and Rakitic was adamant his country deserved to go all the way in France after the game.
“Modestly, I think the best team at these Euros went home,” the Barcelona midfielder said.
“With all due respect, Portugal beat us without doing anything. They qualified for the quarters, but it seems like they haven’t turned up. Despite this, I commend them for their win.
“We’ve earned respect throughout Europe, but football is sometimes complicated and cruel.
“If I have to support someone else then I’d support Spain, but all I want to do now is go home because I miss my daughters and my wife.
“I wish Spain all the luck in the world. Since I couldn’t win the European Championship, I hope my [Barca] teammates win instead.”
