Mario Mandzukic is a top striker on the Croatian national team. Watch the video above to see his highlights from Scout Nation.
Here’s what you need to know about him:
1. He Has the Ability to Breach Mexico’s Goalie
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The Croatians are facing Mexico and the country’s impressive goalie, Guillermo Ochoa in the Group A game Monday.
Mandzukic’s teammate Luka Modric told SuperSport.com:
All due respect to Ochoa, but he (Mandzukic) has scored against even better keepers. But tomorrow it doesn’t matter if he scores or not, what matters is that we achieve our goal.”
2. He Plays For Bayern Munich
He has totaled 48 goals since he joined Bayern Munich in 2012. The German powerhouse bought Mandzukic for $17.6 million with an annual salary of $4.7 million.
3. This Is His First World Cup
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Although Mandzukic has been a part of the Croatian national team since 2008, he did not make the 2010 World Cup Squad but proceed to become the first-choice striker in this year’s World Cup in Brazil.
4. He Was the Croatian Footballer of the Year in 2012 and 2013
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The Croatian Footballer of the Year is considered the most notable athletic award in Croatia.
Mandzukic managed to attain the prestigious award two years ago based on his performances on the soccer field based on a points system.
5. His Sister and Girlfriend Are Both Named Ivana
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There are no surfaced photos of his girlfriend, Ivana, although he bears her name on his soccer cleats during every game. She is supposedly blonde and they have been together 6 years.
Mandzukic sister‘s name is also Ivana and she comes to support him every week in his matches in Bavaria. The photo below includes his sister.
Mandzukic with his sister Ivana,nephew Marino and mother Jelica :) pic.twitter.com/LI0e1xaUgP
— World Cup|CROATIA|☆ (@DanielleMM9) December 26, 2013