Italy Secures Final 16 Spot in Euro 2024 After Thrilling Draw Against Croatia
EURO 2024

Italy Secures Final 16 Spot in Euro 2024 After Thrilling Draw Against Croatia

The reigning European champions, Italy, secured a spot in the final 16 of Euro 2024 under extraordinary circumstances.

A 1-1 draw against Croatia in their last Group B match was enough to advance, thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s last-minute equalizer.

Croatia vs Italy Euro 2024: Italy’s Struggle and the Threat from Modric

In a game where avoiding defeat was crucial, Italy risked being toppled by Luka Modric’s historic strike. As Spain defeated Albania 1-1, Italy needed at least a draw to progress. Luciano Spalletti’s side faced a challenging battle, especially when Modric scored.

Zaccagni’s Heroics at the Last Minute

Just when it seemed Italy would fall short, their relentless pressure paid off. Mattia Zaccagni struck a stunning equalizer moments before the final whistle. Both teams collapsed on the pitch – Italy in joy and Croatia in agony, as the draw left Croatia in third place with just two points.

Croatia’s Slim Hope for Progression

For Croatia to advance, they now rely on Slovenia defeating England 3-1. Even then, Slovenia must score fewer than two goals for Croatia to proceed. Alternatively, Croatia needs a four-goal victory for England, making their path to the knockout rounds very slim.

Livakovic’s Early Heroics

The first half saw Gianluca Scamacca, criticized by his manager, replaced by Mateo Retegui. However, Croatia’s dominance was clear from the start. Gianluigi Donnarumma made a crucial save just five minutes in, thwarting Luka Sucic’s long-range effort.

Italy’s Missed Opportunities

Despite Croatia’s tight defense, Italy created chances. Nicolo Barella’s brilliant play in the 27th minute almost resulted in a goal. However, Alessandro Bastoni’s header was brilliantly saved by Dominik Livakovic, keeping the game goalless.

Modric’s Goal and Italy’s Response

The second half saw changes from both managers, aiming to break the deadlock. Croatia’s Andrej Kramaric won a penalty, but Modric’s attempt was saved by Donnarumma. Croatia maintained pressure, and Modric redeemed himself with a record-setting goal, becoming the oldest scorer in European Championship history.

Croatia vs Italy: Italy’s Desperate Final Minutes

Italy pushed hard in the final minutes, with substitutes making a significant impact. A scare for Croatia came in the 87th minute when Josip Stanisic prevented a goal. In injury time, Riccardo Calafiori set up Zaccagni, whose stunning shot secured Italy’s place in the last 16.

Man of the Match:

Donnarumma’s performance was pivotal. Despite Modric’s goal, he made three crucial saves, denying Croatia’s best chances. His efforts ensured Italy stayed in the game, alongside Zaccagni’s decisive goal.

What’s Next for Italy and Croatia Euro 2024?

Italy, as Group B runners-up, will face Switzerland, third in Group A, in the last 16. Croatia’s fate hangs by a thread, dependent on other results. If they advance, they could face the Group E or F winners, with Portugal as potential opponents.

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