Milan Rapaić (born 16 August 1973) is a Croatian former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He primarily played as an attacking midfielder or winger.
International career He made his debut for Croatia in an April 1994 friendly match away against Slovakia, coming on as a 46th-minute substitute for Darko Vukić, and earned a total of 49 caps, scoring 5 goals.
Rapaić played two games for his country at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and is most remembered for his spectacular goal against Italy, which secured a come-from-behind 2–1 victory.
Rapaić was also included in Croatia's squad at Euro 2004 and played in three matches at the finals. On 17 June 2004, he scored a goal in Croatia's 2–2 draw with reigning champions France in the group stage.
He proved to be a fan favourite with his fun-loving playing style wherever he has played, and after impressive performances, he once again earned a call-up in August 2006 for the Croatian national side after missing the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Croatia went on to beat the world champions Italy 2–0 in Livorno, with Rapaić starting.
His final international was a March 2007 European Championship qualification match against Macedonia.
Personal life Rapaić's son Boris is also a footballer.
Career statistics International
GoalDateVenueOpponentScoreResultCompetition125 April 2001Stadion Varteks, VaraždinFriendly28 May 2002PMFC, PécsFriendly38 June 2002Kashima, Kashima2002 FIFA World Cup4–52 April 2003Stadion Varteks, Varaždin2–0Euro 2004 Qualifying617 June 2004Dr. Magalhães Pessoa, LeiriaUEFA Euro 2004
Honours
Hajduk Split Prva HNL: 1992, 1993–94, 1994–95 Croatian Cup: 1992–93, 1994–95, 2002–03 Croatian Super Cup: 1992, 1993, 1994
Fenerbahçe Süper Lig: 2000–01
References
External links