Euro 2024: Italy reach Last 16 after thrilling draw with Croatia

Italy secured a spot in the Euro 2024 knock-outs with a thrilling 1-1 draw against Croatia in a tense Group B battle on Monday, thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s spectacular last-minute goal. Luka Modric, at 38, achieved the distinction of becoming the oldest striker in the competition’s history when he scored in the 55th minute, just after Gianluigi Donnarumma saved his penalty. Modric surpassed the mark established by Austrian player Ivica Vastic in 2008 with his goal.

Euro 2024: Italy reach Last 16 after thrilling draw with Croatia

Modric’s goal appeared to have ensured Croatia’s qualification for the next round, however, Zaccagni’s exceptional 98th-minute goal propelled Italy to second position, trailing behind Spain. Italy and Switzerland will compete against each other in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Croatia’s future remains uncertain, contingent upon the outcomes of other matches this week.

“It is highly distressing,” Modric expressed.

“Despite our persistent efforts, football proved to be unforgiving towards us tonight.”

In spite of Croatia’s difficulties, coach Zlatko Dalic made the decision to retain the trio of Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, and Mateo Kovacic in the game. Luka Sucic elicited an amazing stop from Donnarumma. Italy employed a defensive strategy and had a rare opportunity with Mateo Retegui’s header, which was deflected.

Dominik Livakovic, Croatia’s goalkeeper, executed an exceptional save to prevent Alessandro Bastoni from scoring. Dalic’s tactical modifications, such as the addition of formidable forward Ante Budimir, yielded positive results as Croatia displayed a greater level of menace in the latter half of the match.

Italy’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, changed his team’s structure to a 3-5-2, although they faced difficulties against a strong Croatian team. However, Zaccagni’s last-minute heroics dashed the dreams of Croatian fans. Modric was named the match’s most outstanding player. Regarding his future, he said, “I will continue to engage in playing, although I am uncertain about the duration.”