Russia and Croatia play each other in the last game of the quarter final fixture at the 2018 FIFA World Cup with both team looking to make history by securing a semi-final ticket.
However, despite Croatia showing some flashes of brilliance and dominance, it was the the host, Russia that took the lead with a stunning strike by Denis Cheryshev’. But Croatia never let their heads drop down and they were rewarded with the equalizer a few minutes later. No further goals were added as the teams head into the dressing rooms after the first 45 minutes.
The second half began with both teams looking to find the breakthrough. However, it was a relatively cagey affair for most part of the half with both side playing it safe with flash of chances from time to time. After 90 minutes, both side were unable to break the deadlock forcing them to head to extra time.
Croatia appeared to be the stronger side in the first half of extra time and they promptly took the lead through Vida. Russia came out fighting in the second 15 minutes of extra time but Croatia defended stoutly. However, their resolve was finally broken by Russia’s persistent pressure as the host equalized with five minutes left forcing the game to be decided by the lottery of penalties. However, Croatia held their nerves and won the match on penalties.
Moments
6′ Rebic close range header just over the bar
59′ WHAT A CHANCE! Croatia go close to taking the lead but Perisic’s goal-bound effort comes off the post and rolls across the goal line
76′ Russian defenders do well to get in the way of Luka Modric and Vrsaljko’s efforts at goal
89′ Subasic goes down injured but continues to play on after receiving treatment
100′ GOAL! Russia 1-2 Croatia (Vida). A corner is played in and Domagoj Vida heads it into the ground, towards the far corner. Vedran Corluka is in the way of the keeper’s eye sight and it bounces straight past several defenders before rolling into the net.
111′ Subasic pulls a vital save to deny Russia in the final nine mintes of extra time
115 GOAL! Right-back Mario Fernandes leaps up highest in the box and nods Alan Dzagoev’s free-kick straight into the back of the net.
Subasic puts in a strong hand to deny Smolov from the spot
Rakitic converts Croatia’s final spot kick to confirm their passage into the semi-finals
Match Statistics
Player Rating
Line-Up
Rushia tried.
Your Comment Here …Thanks crotia i always favoured the under dogs go CROATIA AND TAKE THE WORLD CUP GOD BLESS