Croatian president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic became a meme star when she travelled economy to watch her team play, but her fame was sealed when she wore her team’s shirt to sit among the suits for her countrymen’s win over Russia.
This is the lady who inspired Croatia tonight. She was present. She shouted horse. She screamed. She jumped. She shook Dimitr’s hand. Yes, she is more than a mother to the Croats. Hail Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović. pic.twitter.com/H4QeNvh5z7
— Philip Etale (@EtalePhilip) July 7, 2018
But as Croatia broke the stalemate in extra time, all etiquette was out in Sochi, and the now-jacketless Croatian politician bounced up and down next to Medvedev, who looked away, disappointment etched on his face.
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Medvedev got his revenge when Russia equalized minutes later, but it was Grabar-Kitarovic whose celebrations will be best remembered, as Croatia, a country of 4 million, sealed its place among the top four in the world with a penalty shootout win.
Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović and Croatian Federation President (and former world class player) Davor Suker celebrating go ahead goal. pic.twitter.com/Bw497vB8Am
— Sunil Gulati (@sunilgulati) July 7, 2018
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After the progress to semi-finals was confirmed, the first lady President of the country joined the Croatian team in their celebrations.
Croatian president celebrating with the team after that win 😂 pic.twitter.com/X45AyhCMQ0
— ItalianFootballTV (@IFTVofficial) July 7, 2018