Bilic wants Croatia revenge

Slaven Bilic: The Croatia coach is spurred on by the pain of losing in Euro 2008

Croatia coach Slaven Bilic is primed for revenge against Turkey after the two sides were drawn against each other in the Euro 2012 play-off.

Bilic's vibrant Croatia side were beaten 3-1 on penalties in the quarter-finals of Euro 2008 by the Turks after the game ended 1-1 after extra-time.

However, the former West Ham stopper is confident the result will be different this time around when they meet over two legs next month.

"They are strong opponents, but not stronger than us," said Bilic.

"We've been waiting and dreaming for the last three years to avenge that match. We have a better side and we have to go further."

Respect

Yet, in Turkey boss Guus Hiddink, Bilic knows that he will be coming up against one of the best coaches in world football.

"I respect him very much but he is not the one who is playing," added Bilic.

Turkey have home advantage in the first leg but Bilic feels that this could work against them over the two legs.

"In each match they played at home they (Turkey) always go looking for a win and put teams under loads of pressure," he continued.

"If we manage to soak it up that will give us space to punish them on the counter-attack."