He made his debut for Croatia in an April 1994 friendly match away against Slovakia, coming on as a 46th-minute substitute for Darko Vukić, and earned a total of 49 caps, scoring 5 goals.[1]
Rapaić played two games for his country at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and is most remembered for his spectacular goal against Italy, which secured a come from behind 2–1 victory.[2]
Rapaić was also included in Croatia's squad at Euro 2004 and played in three matches at the finals. On 17 June 2004, he scored a goal in Croatia's 2–2 draw with reigning champions France in the group stage.[3]
He proved to be a fan favourite with his fun-loving playing style wherever he has played, and after impressive performances he once again earned a call up in August 2006 for the Croatian national side after missing the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Croatia went on to beat the world champions Italy 2–0 in Livorno, with Rapaić starting.[4]