Croatia to host Italy and Bulgaria in Split

After the Executive Committee session, a press conference was held to explain the decisions regarding the European qualifier against Italy on 12 June.

"We are disappointed with the UEFA sanctions regarding the closed doors. We wanted to unite Croatian football family and therefore proposed the venue change, with HNS being welcomed to Split. We have found common ground and we are glad to bring the Croatian national team back to Split", said HNS president Davor Šuker.

Executive Committee confirmed that Italy and Bulgaria qualifier will be play at Poljud Stadium in Split. "That was a responsible decision", Šuker added.

Croatian Football Federation will appeal the UEFA ban.

"Our chances are slim", agreed Šuker, "but we have a respectable world reputation, and yet some things are not functioning properly. We have to follow the rules that are the same for everyone. We were all shocked with the UEFA decision and we feel bad about it, but we have to work together to rectify the mistakes".

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