Stipe Pletikosa and Mihael Mikić at Croatian Sports Day at EXPO in Osaka

Croatia marked its National Day with a rich two-day programme showcasing the country’s culture, tradition, innovation, and international cooperation.

A special part of the programme was dedicated to Croatian sport. The event, entitled “Croatian Sports Day,” brought together renowned Croatian athletes, including Pletikosa – the legendary goalkeeper of the Vatreni, a member of the prestigious “Club 100,” and now technical director of the senior and U-21 national teams – as well as Mihael Mikić, a former Croatian youth international who left a significant mark on Japanese football. Special guest of the event was Hajime Moriyasu, head coach of the Japanese national team.

“It is always a great honour and a wonderful feeling to represent Croatia, especially on such a global stage. Croatia has so much to showcase here in Osaka – in many fields, and particularly in sport, where Croatia and Japan are also connected through historic encounters at major tournaments. I am glad that with this participation at the Expo we can further encourage cooperation between Croatia and its international partners. We are also grateful to Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and the Government of the Republic of Croatia for the strong support they provided to this presentation of Croatia at the World Expo, and for recognising sport as an excellent ambassador of our country”, said Pletikosa.

Croatian Sports Day presented passion, skill, and friendship through sport, bringing the spirit of Croatia to the global Expo stage. With games, quizzes, and prize activities, Croatian athletes won the hearts of audiences of all ages.

During the visit to Japan, the Croatian Football Federation delegation also signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Japan Football Association, further strengthening the sporting and friendly ties between the two countries.

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