The 2026 World Cup commenced across North America this month, with national soccer teams arriving in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The Croatian team, or the “Vatereni,” chose Alexandria as its home base. The team, led by head coach Zlatko Dalić, has been utilizing Episcopal High School’s facilities while staying in Old Town.
With remarkable runs to the World Cup final in 2018 and third place in 2022, the Vatereni have captured the world’s attention. The team is also notable from a spiritual perspective, as many of the players like star Luka Modric, as well as Coach Dalić, have spoken openly about their Catholic faith. Modric’s pregame sign of the cross is part of his regular football routine. Coach Dalic is known for grasping the rosary in his pocket during intense moments on the pitch.
Croatia is one of Europe’s most predominantly Catholic countries, which has resonated with many of the current players on the team. Head of communications for the Croatian Football Federation, Tomislav Pacak, spoke on behalf of the Vatereni saying, “There are values that our head coach promotes within the team that are also central to Catholic teaching — humility, modesty and unity. More broadly, these are values deeply embedded in Croatian society, largely through the country’s Catholic tradition, so it is understandable that they are reflected in the national team as well.”
At a press conference held at Episcopal High School with the mayor of Alexandria June 10, EWTN news reporter Mark Irons asked players Kristijan Jackic and Igor Matanovic about their Catholic identity. Centre-forward Matanovic responded with emphasis on the importance of going to Mass, and the role that faith has played in his life and with his family. Jackic, defensive midfielder, seconded the sentiment while also noting the “special emotion” that comes from the faith, giving the team the strength to compete at the World Cup level.
The Croatians made time for a special Sunday Mass at their hotel in Old Town June 14, according to Pacak.
“Whenever circumstances allow, players and members of the coaching staff who wish to do so attend Sunday Mass together, entirely by their own choice,” he said, noting the celebrants were two Franciscan Third Order friars, Fathers Maurus Mavro Dolčić and Dario Mican. “Whenever possible, we try to connect with Croatian priests in the city where we are staying so that Mass can be celebrated in the Croatian language.”
Ultimately, the Croatian national team’s presence forms a unique connection for Northern Virginia World Cup fans and faithful Catholics alike.
“We are proud that Croatia can serve as an inspiration to other ‘small’ nations, showing that even countries with relatively small populations can achieve great success and defeat the world’s footballing giants,” Pacak said. “It shows that success is possible if you have quality, togetherness, self-confidence, belief in success, and faith in your own abilities.”
The Vatereni’s journey echoes Pope Leo XIV’s June prayer intention, reminding all to give thanks for, as he said, “the gift of sport, for those who glorify God through the exercise of their bodies, for the friendships born on the field, and the joy of playing as a team.”
