was born on September 14th, 1979

Full Name: Ivica Olić
Nationality: Croatian
Profession: Footballer
Position: Striker
Current Team: Hamburger SV
International Caps: 104
Goals Scored: 20+
Honors: UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga

Croatian footballer who played as a midfielder and managed several clubs, including Hajduk Split and Dinamo Zagreb, known for his success in Croatian football.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Ivica Oli: The Croatian Football Legend

Ivica Oli is a renowned Croatian professional football manager and former player, best known for his exceptional skills as a striker and his impressive career with top-tier clubs like Hamburger SV, VfL Wolfsburg, Bayern Munich, and CSKA Moscow.

Early Life and Club Career

Born on September 14, 1979, in the village of Davor near Slavonski Brod, Croatia, Oli's passion for football was evident from a young age. He began playing for local club NK Marsonia in 1996 and spent two successful seasons there before moving to German club Hertha BSC in 1998.

After a brief stint with Hertha BSC, Oli returned to Marsonia in 1999 and helped the team earn promotion to the top flight by winning the Croatian Second League. His impressive performance caught the attention of top clubs, and he eventually joined Hamburger SV in 2000.

Rise to Prominence

Oli's career took off in 2004 when he joined CSKA Moscow, with whom he won the 2004-05 UEFA Cup. His impressive form continued as he moved to Bayern Munich in 2007, helping the team reach the UEFA Champions League finals in 2010 and 2012.

During his playing career, Oli earned a reputation as a relentless pursuer of the ball, known for his power, pace, and ability to score crucial goals in big matches. He was hailed as a "typical matchwinner" and "king of important matches" by former Croatia manager Slaven Bilić.

International Career and Coaching Stint

Oli represented Croatia in three FIFA World Cups (2002, 2006, and 2014) and two UEFA European Championships (2004 and 2008), earning his 100th cap on November 16, 2014. He retired from international football in 2015.

In 2017, Oli began his coaching career, joining the coaching staff of the Croatia national team under Zlatko Dalić. He played a crucial role in the team's success, helping them reach the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final and qualify for UEFA Euro 2020.

Awards and Honors

Oli's impressive career was recognized with several awards, including the Croatian Footballer of the Year in 2009 and 2010. He was also a key player in Bayern Munich's UEFA Champions League finals appearances in 2010 and 2012.

Legacy

Ivica Oli's legacy in the world of football is undeniable. With his impressive skills on the field and his successful coaching stint, he has inspired a generation of Croatian footballers. His dedication, passion, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a beloved figure in Croatian football.

Timeline
1965
Born in Croatia
Ivica Olić was born on September 14, 1965, in Davor, SR Croatia, Yugoslavia.
1985
Started Club Career
Olić began his club career in 1985, playing for Dinamo Zagreb and later moving to other clubs in Croatia and abroad.
1996
International Debut
In 1996, Olić made his international debut for Croatia, going on to earn over 100 caps for the national team.
2002
Won DFB-Pokal
Olić won the DFB-Pokal with Hamburger SV in 2002, a major achievement in his club career.
2014
Retired from Football
Olić announced his retirement from professional football in 2014, ending a successful career that spanned over three decades.
Ivica OliÄ?

Quiz

What position did Ivica Oli? play in his football career?

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FAQ
What is Ivica Olićs playing position?
Ivica Olić is a Croatian former professional footballer who played as a striker or attacking midfielder. He was known for his speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability, and was a key player for both club and country.
What are some of Ivica Olićs most notable achievements?
Ivica Olić has had a successful career, winning several titles with clubs such as Bayern Munich and Hamburg SV, as well as representing Croatia at the World Cup and European Championship. He has also been named to various Team of the Year selections and has won individual awards for his performances.
How did Ivica Olić get started in football?
Ivica Olić began playing football at a young age, joining local clubs in his hometown of Davor, Croatia. He eventually moved to the youth academy of Croatian club NK Davor, before making his professional debut in 1996.
What are some of Ivica Olićs career statistics?
Ivica Olić has scored over 200 goals in his professional career, including 18 goals in 104 appearances for Croatia. He has also made over 400 appearances for club teams, and has won numerous titles and individual awards.
What is Ivica Olić doing now?
Ivica Olić retired from professional football in 2017, and has since become a football pundit and coach. He has worked as a commentator for various media outlets and has coached youth teams in Croatia.

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