Kramrik hits back at Canadian coach Herdman

Also used verbally through the ball: Andrej Kramrik (left) and Canada coach John Herdman.
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Alphonso Davies scored Canada’s first World Cup goal on Sunday, but the Bayern supporter prefers not to talk about it: after a 4-1 loss against Croatia that meant the 2026 World Cup co-hosts are out of action for the time being Already passed out, he pushed himself away without saying a word to the waiting media representatives and quickly put a sandwich in his mouth.

Others spoke in its favor, especially the Croats, with particular satisfaction. And of course it was about John Herdman. After an initially unfortunate 1–0 defeat, the Canadian national team coach emotionally stated in a TV interview that “Croatia will f***** now”, leaving the current runners-up to be swept by the world champions.

Kramaric: “I want to thank the Canadian coaches for the inspiration”

At home, the tabloids pounced on the statement, and it too clearly served the players ahead of Saturday’s clash. “I want to thank the Canadian coach for the inspiration,” said Hoffenheim striker Andrzej Kramaric after the win, in which he contributed a brace. “Finally, Croatia showed who the f****d whom.”

Kramarić’s coach Zlatko Dalić, who condemned Herdman’s statements before the game and demanded respect, was not on good terms with his 47-year-old colleague even after the final whistle. “I didn’t see the other head coach after the game,” Delic criticized Herdman’s behavior. “When I lose, I always congratulate the winner.”

Dalik on Herdman: ‘He’s clearly insane’

Dalek said Herdman – who coached Canada’s women’s national team for seven years before taking over in 2018 – is a “good coach” and a “top professional” but still has a lot to learn. “He wasn’t there, that’s obviously how he does it. He’s obviously crazy.”

While Herdmann and his team are only playing for a compromised World Cup final against Morocco on Thursday, a draw against Belgium (both games at 4pm, Live! on Kicker) for Croatia to secure a place in the round of 16 Enough – where a team “German” from Group E will wait.