Carlo Ancelotti has lavished praise on Croatia's Luka Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner, ahead of Tuesday's friendly against Brazil in Orlando, Florida. The midfielder, now with AC Milan after leaving Real Madrid last summer, is expected to captain Croatia at the World Cup. Ancelotti called Modric 'one of the best players I've ever coached' and 'a spectacular professional', highlighting his ability to play any midfield position.

Brazil, however, arrive on the back of a 2-1 defeat to France last week, prompting Ancelotti to stress the need for improvement and a calm approach to their World Cup preparations. 'We need to stay calm and composed,' Ancelotti stated, expressing confidence in the coaching staff and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) that they are on the right track.