Segečić Scores for Portsmouth in League Cup Clash Against West Ham
Portsmouth's young midfielder Segečić netted a spectacular goal from 20 meters in the season's first official match, signaling his bid for a spot on the World Cup roster.
Portsmouth's young midfielder Segečić netted a spectacular goal from 20 meters in the season's first official match, signaling his bid for a spot on the World Cup roster.
The season couldn't have started better for Croatian international Segečić. In Portsmouth's first official match of the new season, the young midfielder found the back of the net against the mighty West Ham in the first round of the League Cup. In the 33rd minute, following a corner, he unleashed a strike from 20 meters into the far corner, sending the away section into a frenzy of delight.
The ball took a slight deflection off a defender on its way to goal, making it unstoppable for the home goalkeeper. It was a moment that immediately highlighted the potential of the 22-year-old, who was one of his team's standout performers last season.
Segečić finished last season with an impressive tally of 11 goals and five assists for Portsmouth, who ultimately finished in 18th place. His performances did not go unnoticed, and soon after, a decision was made that particularly delighted Croatian fans.
Namely, the player, who primarily operates as a right winger and cuts inside onto his left foot, chose to represent Croatia over Australia. That decision was acknowledged by head coach Zlatko Dalić, who included him on the preliminary squad list for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Although he is still waiting for his senior national team debut, Segečić already has experience playing for the youth sides. He has made several appearances for the U-21 team, and with goals like this one against West Ham, he is sending a clear message to coach Dalić ahead of the final selection for the World Cup.
Interestingly, this season, Segečić will be facing West Ham in the same league tier, as West Ham were relegated from the Premier League. The League Cup match may have just been a prelude to the intriguing encounters that lie ahead in the Championship.