- Italy secures a late equaliser against Croatia to progress to the Euro 2024 last 16.
- Luka Modric’s stunning strike had given Croatia the lead, but Mattia Zaccagni’s last-gasp goal dashed their hopes.
- The draw sends Italy through to the knockout stages, while Croatia’s fate hangs in the balance.
Italy’s late equaliser against Croatia has sent them through to the last 16 of Euro 2024, breaking the hearts of the Croatian team and fans. Mattia Zaccagni’s curled effort in the 98th minute secured a 1-1 draw, ensuring Italy’s progression to the knockout stages. This dramatic turn of events has set up a last-16 clash with Switzerland on Saturday, 29 June.
Modric’s Moment of Magic Not Enough
Luka Modric had seemingly won it for Croatia with a stunning strike early in the second half, after seeing a penalty saved. The 38-year-old’s goal looked like it would be enough to send Croatia through as runners-up in Group B. However, Italy’s late leveller dashed their hopes. Modric’s moment of magic had sparked wild celebrations among the Croatian fans, but it was ultimately not enough to secure their progress.
Zaccagni’s Goal Sparks Wild Celebrations
Despite being largely second-best throughout the game, Italy kept pushing until the very end. Their persistence paid off when Zaccagni found space to score the equaliser. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Italian fans, who had been subdued for much of the game. Italy’s players also celebrated with abandon, knowing that their late equaliser had secured their place in the last 16.
Croatia’s Ageing Stars Face Uncertain Future: What Next for Modric and Co?
The defeat raises questions about the future of Croatia’s ageing stars, including Modric, who have been instrumental in their recent successes. With many players in their mid-to-late 30s, it remains to be seen what the future holds for this talented generation. Will they continue to play on, or will this defeat mark the end of an era for Croatian football?
Italy Struggles Continue: Can They Find Form in the Knockout Stages?
Despite their late heroics, Italy have struggled in Euro 2024 so far. They lost to Spain and drew with Albania in their previous games, and this performance did little to inspire confidence. However, their ability to grind out results may yet prove crucial in the tournament. Can Italy find their form in the knockout stages, or will their struggles continue? Only time will tell.
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