If Croatia can maintain the form they showed against Spain, Bilic believes they can compete with world-class teams.

Croatia took the lead in the fourth round of UEFA Nations League Group C thanks to a first-half goal from Perisic, but conceded two goals in the second half, ultimately losing 1-2 to Spain. Despite the defeat, Bilic stated that if the "Checkered Ones" can maintain this form, they will be able to compete with other top teams in the world in the future.

In the 17th minute, Kovacic dribbled forward and passed the ball across the goal. Matanovic received the ball, took a few steps, and fired a low shot, but it was blocked by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon. Perisic then headed the ball into the net, giving Croatia a 1-0 lead.

In the 61st minute of the second half, Yamal's cross was cleared, Olmo immediately passed it diagonally, and Merino fired a low shot into the net, leveling the score at 1-1 for Spain. In the 79th minute, Perisic fouled Cucurella while contesting for possession, resulting in Perisic receiving his second yellow card and being sent off, leaving Croatia with only 10 players to continue.

In the 88th minute, Martin Zubmendi chipped a pass into the penalty area, and Merino controlled the ball before unleashing a powerful shot to score, giving Spain a 2-1 lead.

Ultimately, Croatia lost 1-2 to Spain at home.

Croatian coach Bilic said, "I don't like to celebrate after losing, but especially considering the humiliating defeat to England a few days ago, we really played very well in this game."

"Facing the world champions, we had to be under pressure. We played almost perfectly in the first half and should have gone into halftime with a two-goal lead, but their goalkeeper made one threat after another, keeping them in the competition."

Bilic pointed out, "This is the best example of how we should play, how we should show our attitude, and how we should compete with our opponents. If we can play like this in every game, then we can compete with almost any team in the world."

"I have never worried about how the fans will react. They have always been very enthusiastic and will always stand behind the team as long as they see the players giving their all."

In addition, Croatian midfielder Kovacic said, "Of course it's impossible to be happy after losing, but after going through a very difficult few days, we showed a positive response, which is very important for us."

“We played very well at the beginning of the game, scored a goal, and had another chance. When you fail to capitalize on your chances against a team like that, they make you pay, and they did just that in the second half.”

Kovacic also stated, "We must respond and play more aggressively, and fight for every ball, which is what we didn't do against England. We performed much better, and this is the kind of performance we should maintain. Losing is certainly not satisfactory, but it's still a step forward."

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