Dinamo striker Dion Drena Beljo has not been selected for Croatia's World Cup squad, despite a stellar season. In 47 games, Beljo netted 38 goals and provided six assists for Dinamo. Many believed he deserved a spot on the team heading to the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the tournament from June 11 to July 19. His name, however, remains on the pre-calling list.

"First, congratulations to Dinamo and Beljo, who was very close. But the competition is fierce. We have Kramarić and Budimir, who are undisputed, and there's Musa and Matanović. Musa is playing well in MLS and was great in March. Matanović is in the Bundesliga, the club's top scorer, and playing in the Europa League final," Dalic said about his selection.

Beljo Has Played Twice for Croatia

"I called Beljo to the national team three years ago. The only reason he isn't on the list is due to competition," Dalic added.

Beljo has played two matches for Croatia, both in October 2023. In the Euro qualifiers, he was given 10 minutes in a 0-1 loss to Turkey and half a game in a 1-2 loss to Wales. He also sat on the bench three times without entering the game.

Dalic's World Cup Squad and Pre-calling List

Goalkeepers: Dominik Livaković, Dominik Kotarski, and Ivor Pandur.

Defenders: Joško Gvardiol, Duje Ćaleta-Car, Josip Šutalo, Josip Stanišić, Marin Pongračić, Martin Erlić, and Luka Vušković.

Midfielders: Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Mario Pašalić, Nikola Vlašić, Luka Sučić, Martin Baturina, Kristijan Jakić, Petar Sučić, Nikola Moro, and Toni Fruk.

Forwards: Ivan Perišić, Andrej Kramarić, Ante Budimir, Marco Pašalić, Petar Musa, and Igor Matanović.

Pre-calling: Lovro Majer, Franjo Ivanović, Dion Drena Beljo, Ivan Smolčić, Karlo Letica, Adrian Segečić, and Luka Stojković.