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World Cup 2018

Croatia's Vida pleads forgiveness from the Russian people

The defender who spoke about support for the Ukraine after his side knocked Russia out of the World Cup has apologised ahead of the final against France.

Croatia's Vida pleads forgiveness from the Russian people
SERGEI CHIRIKOVEFE
ASTV

Booed throughout much of the semi-final against England, Croatia's Domagoj Vida has come out to apologise to the Russia people for his comments about the Ukraine.

Vida hoping for extra life from Russians

Following the controversial comments made by the player on the back of eliminating Russia from their own World Cup, in which he sent a message of support to the Ukraine, Vida's every touch was met with boos and whistles from the home fans. The published video was enough for Vukojevic, who also appeared, to be immediately dismissed from the coaching staff of the national team.

Croatia's defender Domagoj Vida celebrates with his son David.
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Croatia's defender Domagoj Vida celebrates with his son David.YURI CORTEZAFP

The Croatian defender, however, wanted to set the record straight ahead of the final where his side will meet France on Sunday.

"I want to apologise to Russia again. I understand that I was wrong. I just wanted to say hello to my friends at the Kiev Café. I respect the Ukrainians, Russians and Serbs, with whom I have played at my clubs."