A Croatian dynamo: Ivan Novoselec's robust journey in Tajikistan

Ivan Novoselec is a player for Istiklol Dushanbe. Soccer is not the only sport that deeply interests Croatians. He is in the gym more often than on the field, so it's easy to mistake him for a bodybuilder.

The top-pinned photo on Ivan Novoselec's Instagram profile shows him with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Croatians were responsible for marking the Portuguese players, and they met on the field in a group stage match of the Asian Champions League. Istiklol Dushanbe first lost to Al-Nassr 3-1 away, but later drew 1-1 at home.

Ivan Novoselec joined the club from Tajikistan before the current season. The defender had previously tried his luck in his homelands of Croatia and Slovenia.

Recently, Ivan Novoselec gained attention for winning the Tajikistan Championship. The competition is not of a high level, but winning it grants a ticket to the Asian Champions League. Ivan Novoselec celebrated by showcasing his traditionally impressive musculature.

Croatians spend even more time in the gym than on the field. Ivan Novoselec is interested in combat sports and bodybuilding. Meeting the athlete outside of soccer matches or training sessions might lead to mistaking him for a bodybuilder.

Opposing strikers find strength duels with Ivan Novoselec unpleasant. They often avoid body-to-body confrontations with the Croatian because they can be painful experiences.

Ivan Novoselec tries to infect his teammates with his passion for strength training. None of them can even come close to matching the Croatian's musculature. The top honour goes unquestionably to the player from the Balkans.