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Friendly: Mali Beaten by Croatia

Perišić Brace Lifts Croatia Over Mali in World Cup Warm-Up

Croatia stepped up their preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup with a confidence-boosting 2-1 victory over Mali in a friendly held in Osijek on Saturday.

Midfielder Ivan Perišić was the star of the evening, netting both goals for the hosts in a match that served as an important tune-up ahead of the tournament in Brazil. The Wolfsburg player struck early in the 15th minute and doubled the lead shortly after the hour mark, showcasing sharp attacking form just weeks before the World Cup kicks off.

Mali responded through Kalilou Traoré, who pulled one back in the 79th minute, but the Eagles were unable to find an equaliser despite late pressure.

The fixture gave Croatia manager Niko Kovač a valuable opportunity to assess his squad before the World Cup group stage, where the team will compete in a challenging Group A alongside hosts Brazil, Mexico, and Cameroon. With their tournament opener set against Brazil on 12 June in São Paulo, Croatia will be encouraged by the cohesion and attacking promise shown in Osijek.

Perišić’s performance, in particular, will give the Croatians a lift. The 25-year-old was dynamic throughout the match, demonstrating both clinical finishing and tireless work on the wing—a vital asset against high-calibre opposition in Brazil.

Mali, meanwhile, are not among the teams qualified for the World Cup but used the match as part of their ongoing preparations for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Coach Henryk Kasperczak opted to rotate his side and test different combinations in a match that also offered international experience to a number of players on the fringes of the squad.

Despite the defeat, the Malian side showed glimpses of promise, particularly in the second half, and will look to build on that momentum as they shift focus toward continental competition.

Croatia will continue fine-tuning their tactics and squad selections in the days ahead, with the team determined to make a strong impression on the world stage. After failing to advance past the group stage in their last two World Cup appearances, they will be hopeful of a more successful campaign this time around.

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