The Sports Psychology Blog
This Sports Psychology blog, comes as Croatia secure their place in the quarter-finals of Euro' 2008, with a memorable victory over Germany.
Football: Croatia - Intensity!
After Croatia's patchy performance against Austria, and Germany's strong opening show against Poland, it was widely expected that the German's would cement that initial Euro' 2008 form, with a second Group B win yesterday.
But, from the very first whistle in Klagenfurt, Croatia showed that they were up for this Thursday evening challenge. This was a united team, that had been superbly prepared, by coach Slaven Bilic.
They played with the work ethic and spirit of a well-knit club team, matched with the sense of purpose of an international team, playing for the pride of their country.
Germany had few answers, because Croatia had a far greater intensity than the Germans could muster. Intensity, born out from, excellent physical and mental preparation.
Each Croatian player seemed to know exactly what their role was. Their individual decision-making was always good. Each player was thinking clearly, about what they were doing. Energy levels and commitment were superb. Players supported each other, willingly and consistently.
Clearly, this was a game that had meaning for Croatia. Whether it was to prove a point, to those who had criticised them after their performance against Austria. Or to counter the historical superiority complex of the Germans. Either way, Croatia seemed to treat the game, as if everything was on the line.
The challenge for Croatia now, will be to match this level of intensity. The opposition will be prepared for what to expect. It is no good delivering excellence in the second game of the tournament, if you cannot, subsequently, raise your level another notch.
The art of tournament play, that the top teams have perfected over the years, is to start slowly. Don't show your hand. Grow into the tournament. Build momentum. Save your best until last.
Yesterday in Klagenfurt, Croatia set their personal performance standard. Was that, though, a one-off tournament display to savour? Or did we witness European champions-in-waiting?
