The 54-year-old coach believes his side has “big potential” and fully expects them to continue to get better – but only if the players work hard and demonstrate “discipline and continuity”.

He told World Soccer magazine: “I think this team indeed has big potential.

“But I’m always cautious when we talk about the future. Talent alone doesn’t mean anything if there is no work, discipline and continuity.

“We have young players who already play serious football and who are yet to reach their best years.

“It is most important that the team stays hungry for success and that it doesn’t think that the World Cup participation is the end of the story.

“I believe that this is only the beginning of a serious project.”

When Sergej took charge of the side in 2024, his goal was to quality for Euro 2028 so he’s delighted the team have already done better in making the World Cup.

He said: “When I took over the national team, I was aware that a hard and long process was in front of us.

“I didn’t want to give unrealistic promises; I didn’t want to say what people liked to hear.

“I considered that Euro 2028 was a realistic goal for a new generation, which we have started to build.

“However, through work, energy, and character of the team, one could see that we were maturing faster than expected.”