Croatia has produced numerous talented footballers over the years, and among the most notable in recent times are defenders Dejan Lovren and Domagoj Vida. Both players have been pivotal for the Croatian national team, particularly during their impressive run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final. Let’s compare their careers, playing styles, achievements, and current statuses.
Careers of Croatian Defenders
The career paths of both Croatian footballers have their ups, downs, similarities and differences. Let’s find out a little bit more about their formation in the football community.
Dejan Lovren
Dejan Lovren, born on July 5, 1989, in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, began his professional career with Dinamo Zagreb before moving to Lyon, Southampton, and then Liverpool, where he achieved significant success. As of 2021, Lovren plays for Zenit Saint Petersburg.
Player Info:
- Age: 34
- Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
- Position: Centre-back
- Current Club: Zenit Saint Petersburg
- National Team: Croatia
Lovren’s career highlights include winning the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. Known for his aerial ability and physical presence, Lovren is a commanding defender who excels in one-on-one situations.
Major Achievements:
- UEFA Champions League Winner (2019)
- Premier League Winner (2020)
- FIFA World Cup Runner-up (2018)
Domagoj Vida
Domagoj Vida, born on April 29, 1989, in Osijek, Croatia, started his career at NK Osijek before moving to Bayer Leverkusen, Dinamo Zagreb, Dynamo Kyiv, and then Beşiktaş, where he currently plays. Vida is known for his versatility, being able to play as a center-back and a right-back.
Player Info:
- Age: 35
- Height: 1.84 m (6 ft 0 in)
- Position: Centre-back / Right-back
- Current Club: Beşiktaş
- National Team: Croatia
Vida has won several league titles with Dinamo Zagreb and Dynamo Kyiv and has been a key player for Beşiktaş. He is known for his aggressive tackling, versatility, and leadership on the field.
Major Achievements:
- Multiple Croatian League Titles with Dinamo Zagreb
- Ukrainian Premier League Titles with Dynamo Kyiv
- Süper Lig Winner with Beşiktaş (2021)
- FIFA World Cup Runner-up (2018)
Comparison Table
| Parameter | Dejan Lovren | Domagoj Vida |
| Speed | 30.2 km/h | 32.1 km/h |
| Tackling Success Rate | 72% | 75% |
| Pass Accuracy | 87% | 83% |
| Aerial Duels Won | 70% | 68% |
| Interceptions per Game | 2.1 | 2.5 |
| Clearances per Game | 4.3 | 4.7 |
| Goals Scored | 15 (Club Level), 4 (National Team) | 23 (Club Level), 4 (National Team) |
| Assists | 7 (Club Level), 1 (National Team) | 11 (Club Level), 3 (National Team) |
Who’s Better?
This is a question that cannot be answered definitively. Both players are legends of Croatian football and have their own style of play. Lovren’s aerial ability and commanding presence contrasts with Vida’s versatility and aggressive style.
Both players have had brilliant careers and continue to play an important role in their respective clubs and the Croatian national team. Their experience and skill exemplify the high standards of Croatian football, making them outstanding figures in the sport.