Italy shatter Croatia Euro qualification with last minute equalizer

In stoppage time, Italy shattered Croatia’s dreams with a late equalizer, securing the defending champions’ progression to the last 16 of Euro 2024.

Luka Modric believed he had clinched victory for Croatia, aiming to secure them a spot as runners-up in Group B, when he powered a shot into the net early in the second half. This came after his penalty was saved, but his swift response seemed enough for Croatia.

However, Italy equalized in stoppage time when Zaccagni curled in a shot in the 98th minute, ensuring their advancement alongside group winners Spain.

It was a devastating blow for Croatia, who were minutes away from progressing. With only two points, it’s now unlikely they will qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.

As a result, Italy will face Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday, June 29.

At the final whistle, Croatia’s players collapsed to the ground, while their fans stood in disbelief. The 2018 World Cup finalists had underperformed in their first two games, losing to Spain and drawing with Albania.

Going into this match as underdogs against the defending champions, Croatia started strong, putting Italy on the back foot. However, their struggles in the final third seemed destined to be their downfall.

Then Modric, 38, stepped up, quickly recovering from his saved penalty to drive a shot into the net, sending Croatian fans into a frenzy. Croatia managed the game well until Zaccagni’s late equalizer dashed their hopes.

The future of Croatia’s aging stars, including Modric, remains uncertain as they now face the twilight of their careers.