Luka Modric: Rodrygo's World Cup penalty miss will strengthen him
- Heinrich Griessel
- 10 December 2022
Croatia captain Luka Modric praised Real Madrid team-mate Rodrygo's courage after the youngster missed a penalty for Brazil in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Rodrygo stepped up to take Brazil's first penalty in the shootout which followed extra-time of the 1-1 draw with Croatia.
Unfortunately for the Madrid striker he failed to beat goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, and was visibly upset.
Brazil went on to lose the shootout to Modric's Croatia, but the Ballon d'Or winner, who also missed a crucial penalty in the EURO 2008 quarter-final, is convinced that the experience will serve to strengthen Rodrygo.
"I was his age when I missed a crucial penalty in the 2008 Euro," Modric said during his post-match interview.
"We have to praise him for having the courage and determination to take the first penalty, that will make him stronger."
The 21-year-old Los Blancos talent has made 19 appearances for Real Madrid so far this season, scoring seven goals and providing five assists.
