NEW DELHI: Italy secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s last-gasp equalizer in the 98th minute in a pivotal Group B clash at Euro 2024. The result propelled the reigning champions into the Round of 16 while leaving Croatia’s hopes hanging precariously.
Croatia appeared to be on course for victory after Luka Modric, having missed an earlier penalty, capitalized on a rebound to give his team a 55th-minute lead. Despite dominating possession for large portions of the match, Croatia struggled to convert their control into clear-cut chances.
“Football was merciless with us tonight, it was cruel. It is hard when you lose like this to describe how you feel. The football gods don’t always smile on us,” Modric said, as quoted by Reuters.
Italy, who had suffered a setback with a loss to Spain in their previous match, showed resilience and determination. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments when substitute Zaccagni unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the box, leaving Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic with no chance.
The draw ensured Italy finished second in Group B, setting up a clash with Switzerland in the next round. Croatia, meanwhile, face an anxious wait to see if their two points will be enough to secure qualification as one of the four best third-placed teams.
The match was characterized by contrasting styles, with Croatia dominating possession and Italy relying on a more direct approach. Croatia’s inability to convert their dominance into goals ultimately proved costly, while Italy’s late surge demonstrated their resilience and attacking threat.
Croatia appeared to be on course for victory after Luka Modric, having missed an earlier penalty, capitalized on a rebound to give his team a 55th-minute lead. Despite dominating possession for large portions of the match, Croatia struggled to convert their control into clear-cut chances.
“Football was merciless with us tonight, it was cruel. It is hard when you lose like this to describe how you feel. The football gods don’t always smile on us,” Modric said, as quoted by Reuters.
Italy, who had suffered a setback with a loss to Spain in their previous match, showed resilience and determination. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments when substitute Zaccagni unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the box, leaving Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic with no chance.
The draw ensured Italy finished second in Group B, setting up a clash with Switzerland in the next round. Croatia, meanwhile, face an anxious wait to see if their two points will be enough to secure qualification as one of the four best third-placed teams.
The match was characterized by contrasting styles, with Croatia dominating possession and Italy relying on a more direct approach. Croatia’s inability to convert their dominance into goals ultimately proved costly, while Italy’s late surge demonstrated their resilience and attacking threat.