After Slovenia and England finished third best in the group with three points, Group B received only two points. The Croatian team has officially decided to withdraw from the tournament. However, 38-year-old Modi Cali reportedly still does not intend to quit the national team and even intends to help the team beat the world team in 2026.
The Netherlands and Slovenia are third in the four groups, occupying two seats. In addition, third-placed Hungary in Group A has three points and four teams in Group E have three points, leaving Croatia waiting for a miracle and ultimately disillusioned hopes. Earlier, it was rumored that three of Croatia's veterans, Modi Li, Duma Govida and Bileksi, would quit the national team after the team's exit. However, according to British media reports, Modi Li did not quit. The Real Madrid veteran is hoping to help his team win a ticket to the 2026 World Final Week and wants to play again. If successful, it would mean he would be competing at the age of 40.
So far, Modi has played 178 games for Croatia, the most in team history, and has amassed 26 goals and 29 assists. He has played in five European national teams for Croatia. The best result was a top 8 finish in 2008. In addition, he finished in the top 16 twice and exited the group stage twice.
