**Croatia's Lopes Returns to Lineup for World Cup Qualifiers**
After a long absence from the Croatia national team, midfielder Mateo Lopes has re-joined the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The 28-year-old was initially suspended due to disciplinary issues in October 2021, but he returned to the club and has been making progress with his rehabilitation. His return to the team is significant as it brings back a key player who has been crucial to Croatia's performance over the past few years.
Lopes' versatility makes him a valuable asset to the Croatian midfield. He can play both as a central midfielder and a winger, which gives the coach flexibility in constructing the team's formation. In recent matches, Lopes has shown signs of improvement and could be a key player in Croatia's quest for qualification to the World Cup.
This move comes at a time when Croatia is facing some tough challenges in qualifying for the tournament. The country will face several strong opponents, including Portugal, Serbia, and Switzerland, in their group stage matches. However, with Lopes back on board, Croatia may have a better chance of securing a spot in the final round of qualifiers.
As Croatia prepares for the World Cup qualifiers, fans and supporters can look forward to seeing Lopes continue to contribute to the team's success. With his experience and skillset, he should be able to help Croatia compete at the highest level of international football.