PARIS - Tensions have been running high among Croatian journalists in Paris following a translation mishap at a press conference ahead of the much-anticipated UEFA Nations League quarterfinal match between Croatia and France. This event, set to take place on Sunday, March 23, 2025, has left many questioning basic professional etiquette and respect for national identities.
The Croatian national team, coming off a solid 2-0 victory in the first leg in Split, arrived in France ready to take on the defending world champions. However, an incident involving a hotel receptionist asking if the journalists were from Serbia, as well as whether Croatia shares the same flag as Serbia, sparked outrage. Such comments trivialize the stark differences between the nations, despite the historical context of their shared Yugoslav heritage.
On March 22, 2025, a press conference held at the Stade de Saint-Denis saw French coach Didier Deschamps addressing the media in French with translations purportedly provided into Serbian. This misstep prompted backlash from Croatian media, particularly the notable Croatian portal "Slobodna Dalmacija," which highlighted the implications of such a significant gaffe. "This isn’t merely a matter of translation quality but rather a fundamental respect for national identity and integrity," stated the portal's report.
As one Croatian journalist elaborated, "It’s one thing to be asked if you’re from Serbia while holding a passport that clearly states Croatia. It is another when this happens in a professional context, especially at a media conference before a high-stakes match." This incident, rather than an isolated error, serves as a reminder of the sensitivities that linger from the erstwhile Yugoslavia. "While the languages might be similar, they are distinct, and it’s essential to recognize that," the journalist continued.
Reacting to the mix-up, Croatian journalists expressed their frustrations, once again underscoring that the Croatian language is not to be conflated with Serbian, each reflecting a different cultural and historical identity. This discontent is further fueled by a history where national distinctions were often overshadowed in the era of Yugoslavia.
"The translator did a commendable job, yet calling Croatian by another name is simply unacceptable. We can understand each other to an extent, but this is extraordinary," another Croatian media representative remarked.
The Croatian football team’s arrival within a politically charged atmosphere is both a part of their preparations and a reflection of regional dynamics culminating from past grievances. In this case, the stakes are not merely about winning or losing on the football pitch but embodying a broader struggle for recognition and respect.
On a lighter note, Lazar Samardžić, a Serbian player currently representing Atalanta, recently voiced optimism about receiving increased playing time under coach Gian Piero Gasperini. "Of course, it's tough following in the footsteps of Dušan Tadić, given everything he has accomplished for Serbia, but I’m giving it my all," the 23-year-old said, expressing hope for a more substantial role in upcoming matches.
Meanwhile, on the health front, French footballer Franck Ribéry shared harrowing details about his life post-retirement. The 41-year-old revealed he faced a serious health scare after suffering from an infection that nearly resulted in the amputation of his leg. "I spent twelve days in the hospital grappling with fears of what could have happened. It was a wake-up call," he disclosed.
The atmosphere in Paris ahead of the upcoming match remains tense, as Croatia aims to transform the prevailing narrative and secure their spot further into the tournament by defeating their adversaries.
This weekend’s match is itself a test of prowess and will undoubtedly carry weight beyond the footballing realm, as historical sentiments mesh with modern-day rivalries. Croatia may feel an additional sense of motivation to secure victory after the recent events, reminding themselves of the importance of their national identity and narrative.
As the clock ticks down and the match approaches, it’s clear that beyond the tangible stakes of winning, this encounter in Paris symbolizes ongoing discussions surrounding identity and respect that continue long after the final whistle.
