Newlywed couple at Poljud: The fans are amazing

Croatian fans won them over back in America, and now Ashton and Zach Smith have experienced that passion firsthand at Poljud Stadium.

The newlyweds from Philadelphia, whose wedding turned into a spontaneous celebration with Croatian fans during the World Cup, attended yesterday’s Croatia–Spain match in Split. Speaking exclusively to Glas Hrvatske from the stands, they shared their impressions of the atmosphere and the passionate Croatian supporters.

From Philadelphia to Split

Ashton and Zach’s story with Croatia began quite by chance. During the World Cup, their wedding day turned into an unforgettable celebration after they crossed paths with Croatian fans.

What began as a spontaneous encounter quickly became a shared celebration. Photos and videos of the newlyweds surrounded by Croatian supporters soon attracted widespread attention online.

That unexpected connection eventually brought them to Croatia.

Organized by the Croatian National Tourist Board, with the support and assistance of its partners, their trip to Split gave them the chance to experience Croatia’s football culture firsthand.

A celebration on the Riva, then Poljud

Ahead of yesterday’s match between Croatia and Spain, Ashton and Zach joined Croatian supporters on Split’s Riva.

Singing, Croatian flags and the unmistakable energy of the fans provided a taste of what awaited them at Poljud Stadium.

“The match has been absolutely incredible so far. The atmosphere is great, the fans are so passionate, and you can see the players really want this win,” they said.

They were particularly impressed by the Croatian national team’s performance on the pitch.

“I mean, they are playing incredibly well in both defense and attack. Croatia is leading 1–0. Let’s go! Second half!” they said from the stands at Poljud.

Croatian fans win them over once again

After first encountering Croatian supporters thousands of kilometers from Croatia, Ashton and Zach now had the chance to experience that same passion in the heart of Dalmatia.

From a chance meeting with Croatian fans after their wedding in America, to the celebrations on Split’s Riva and, finally, the stands at Poljud, their unexpected Croatian story has gained another memorable chapter.