Spain Edge past Croatia in thriller

Euro 2020

Round of 16

Copenhagen

Spain 5

Sarabia 38'

Azpilicueta 57'

Ferran Torres 76'

Morata 100'

Oyarzabal 103'

Croatia 3

Unai Simon (OG) 20'

Orsic 85'

Pasalic 90+2'

What a game. Croatia fought well to get a spot in the final 8, but missed chances deny them a win over spirited Spain. Match turned out to be a classic, Spain won match and Croatia hearts. It could be last time we see great Modric in Euros. He was, as always, a pleasure to watch. Spain would meet winners of match between France and Switzerland. 

Earlier, both teams started with 4-3-3 formation. Croatia got a lucky goal advantage when Unai Simon casually touched a ball from Pedri to his own net, without any pressure or any player near him. But, Spain came back to match with a superb attacking goal. Livakovic stopped first shot from Gaya, but Sarabia got loose ball that he smashed into the net. Azpilicueta headed another one home for Spain in the second half to give Spain lead. It seemed match would be over whrn Spain scored again and took score to 3-1. Ferran Torres took a brilliant first touch and took ball into box for a 1v1 with goal keeper before tapped past it to net. But, to keep viewers on edge, Croatia pulled one back. Modric took ball all the way to byline and crossed the ball across past goal keeper, after a hustle substitute stricker Orsic kicked it behind the line. Referee confirmed goal by goal line technology. 

Before stoppage time, Croatian levelled eith a stunning goal, when Orsic passed ball into box , which came between the centre backs, which Pasalic sliced with head into the net. 

The match was decided by two big misses in the first half of extra time. Croatia, especially their left flank looked dangerous in the extra time. 2 of their chances wrnt in vain, as one kicked above goal and another stopped brilliantly by Simon. Soon, Spain scored 2 goals in succession. 

In the second half of extra time, Spain kept ball and denied Croatia a chance to come close to goal. Modric getting substituted was the real mark of Croatians giving it up.