Zagreb, (IKA) – The Archbishop of Zagreb, Cardinal Josip Bozanić, sent a letter of congratulations to the Croatian national soccer team and its head coach, Zlatko Dalić, a translation of which is presented below in its entirety:
“Dear Croatian national team, esteemed Head Coach Zlatko Dalić, professional associates and officials of the Croatian Soccer League,
“As one who is partaking in joy, with special thanks to God, the source of all good and joy, as the Croatian nation in the homeland and throughout the world is celebrating the silver trophy you won, under the unique leadership of your head coach, I send you my heartfelt congratulations on this great triumph in the history of Croatian sports.
“I congratulate you not only for your exceptional achievements at the FIFA World Cup in Russia. In your performance, behavior and statements, you have demonstrated an attitude that can inspire every person, an attitude of serious preparation, zeal, unselfishness and commendable humility toward your achievements, giving due credit to everyone who contributes to the power of unity. You are, at this moment, despite disappointment and the erosion of unity in the Croatian society, a model, especially to young people, and demonstrate that in every calling it is necessary to invest effort, develop a willingness to make sacrifices and have the passion that yields amazing fruits.
“Dear members of the Croatian national soccer team, if there has ever been even a grain of sadness in your hearts because you did not win the golden trophy intended for the champions, remember that with your silver, your efforts and sacrifices, your unity and love, you have brought something much greater to Croatia. You have restored hope and brought joy to your Croatian homeland. You have put light in the hearts of so many people in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croats living in other countries, and have inspired them to do good and to restore a sense of community. Moreover, you have made an immeasurable contribution through this championship by familiarizing the world with Croatia.
“You have also demonstrated how the bond of love and devotion creates something great. It was wonderful to sense your attitude of humility and selflessness, which yielded such rich fruits. You called attention not to your individual accomplishments but to the contributions and merits of others, and to what can only be achieved through faith, as well as the importance of the family and the value of making sacrifices for the homeland. This is the key that we see in all Croatian victories. The Croatian nation recognized this in your appearances and rediscovered the power of hope. Thank you!
Invoking God’s blessing upon you and your families, I pray to the Lord to protect you on the paths of your lives. Continue to shine brightly because you have given us abundant joy.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of the Croats, always intercede for you. One of your fans sends you his heartfelt greetings.”