Croatia’s national soccer team made an unexpected appearance at Sunday Mass in Ičići, near Opatija, surprising local worshippers just one day before their friendly match against Belgium.
The team arrived without prior announcement for the Eucharistic celebration held on May 31, during the Feast of the Holy Trinity. Among those present were head coach Zlatko Dalić, technical director Stipe Pletikosa, and several well-known players, including Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Dominik Livaković, Mario Pašalić, Nikola Vlašić, Ante Budimir and others.
Their quiet arrival quickly drew attention, especially from children, who asked the players for autographs and photos. The players stayed only briefly because of team obligations and training ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
The Mass was held in a chapel with a notable history. The building was once the family home of Ivo Robić, one of Croatia’s most famous singers. Shortly before his death in 2000, Robić and his wife Marta left the property to the then Rijeka-Senj Archdiocese. It was later converted into the Chapel of St. John of God.
During the service, parish priest Mato Berišić welcomed the players and wished them luck, delivering a message centered on faith, encouragement and perseverance.
The visit came as Croatia continues its preparations for upcoming international matches, with the team also set to face Slovenia in Varaždin.
