Centurion Klavan refuses to let Estonia dream die

Ragnar Klavan told UEFA.com that making his 100th international appearance had been "special" even if the disappointment of defeat in Switzerland took the gloss off the Estonia captain's big night.

Klavan received a commemorative cap on the Swissporarena pitch before kick-off, with Estonia hoping to end a winless run of three Group E games. Instead, they left nursing their heaviest loss of this UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying campaign after conceding twice inside 27 minutes as well as extending their streak of competitive matches without a goal to four.

"The first goal was a set piece. We defended too deep for the second, and when you're 2-0 down away to Switzerland then you are in a really difficult situation," centre-back Klavan explained. "Of course, it is really special to be in the 100 club, but it's nowhere near as special as this qualifying game was important. Personal triumphs are always secondary. The team always comes first."

There was little doubt Klavan was the sole focus of attention – at least until the first whistle in Lucerne – as his career milestone was acknowledged. The achievement will merely serve to enhance the reputation of the FC Augsburg defender, who has become the most-recognised face of Estonian football since moving to Germany from AZ Alkmaar in 2012.

"I have improved a lot, because the German league is one of the best in the world. I came from the Dutch league where I had made things work with my physical performance," the 29-year-old left-footer said. "It took me two months to get to the level of the Bundesliga. Since I've adapted, I have been playing and playing well, so that is good to see. I have developed a lot in Germany and I feel it is ongoing."

Estonia too have made progress since Klavan's father Dzintar – "my biggest hero," his son confessed – faced a Swiss side coached by Roy Hodgson in FIFA World Cup qualifying in 1993. Despite Friday's setback in Switzerland, a first major finals remains a feasible ambition for Magnus Pehrsson's men, who are five points off a place in the top three in the section.

"It's my dream – Estonia is my country, I dream about it, it's the biggest dream I have," said Klavan, whose team next play San Marino at home in June. "It's not easy to qualify with Estonia, but as long as we have a chance, we have to believe it is possible and stay positive."