Baric accentuates the positive

Real achievement
Otto Baric's men were eliminated last night after a 4-2 defeat by England meant they finished Group A in third place, having previously drawn 0-0 with Switzerland and 2-2 with defending champions France. However, ahead of tomorrow's return to Zagreb, Baric was remaining upbeat at today's final media briefing, claiming the real achievement by his inexperienced side was getting to Portugal in the first place.

Better teams
He said: "We didn't reach the second round, but we played against much better teams. However, I think we made some real progress here. "I think we realise that England are a better team. We played against the best players from the Premiership. I couldn't do a better job. After all, did anyone believe that we could reach the second round?

Future uncertain
Regarding speculation over his future, Baric said: "I am not concerned about extending my contract, maybe I will resign, maybe not. It's not all down to me. I think that I achieved more good than bad things. There are a lot of highs and lows for every team. I have coached the team in 24 games and if I'm not wrong, I achieved eleven victories, eight draws and five losses. But, in just two or three games we were outplayed."

Positive ending
On last night's match, Baric said: "If I had the chance to play against England again, I would maybe make three changes in the team. But, after a good game against France, it didn't make sense to make a lot of changes." However, he finished on a positive note by saying: "The atmosphere and the relations between the players were excellent. I congratulate them for everything."