Croatia, which prevailed over England 2-1 in extra time in the second semifinal of the tournament, is celebrating its qualification for a World Cup final for the first time in its history, despite being behind the score from a very early stage.
The game started with the best omens for the English, who just in the 5th minute were in front of the score, with Tripier performing the foul exemplary, leaving no room for reaction to Subasic.
The quick goal surprised the Croatians, who were in danger of conceding a second goal, but the pressure of the English did not bear fruit. The continuation of the first half was not very spectacular, with the best moment being a crossbar by Kane in the 30., Which was… as not happening, since the English striker was indicated in an offside position.
In the second half Croatia increased its performance, and in 68 'Vrsalko made the cross, Perisic was thrown in the course of the ball with a projection and sent the ball into the nets of Pickford, tying the score at 1-1.
From there, the Croatians increased the pressure even more and in 72 'Perisic again lost a great opportunity, as after a mistake of the English defense he sent the ball to the crossbar.
On the other hand, the English became more mobile with the entry of Rasford in the game in 74 ', instead of Sterling, and so in the last ten minutes of regular time the pace was stormy, but the winning goal did not come for either team. resulting in the match being extended.
Despite the fatigue that weighed on the feet of the players (especially the Croatians, for whom it was the third consecutive match that went to extra time), in the first part of the extra time the two teams had a great opportunity: in 99 'Vrsaliko moved away in the line the head of Stones, while in 105 'Pickford stopped Mandzukic with a difficult operation.
But the goal finally came in the 109th minute, and it was for Croatia: with the English defense caught in the sleep, Mandzukic took the opportunity and with a nice shot defeated Pickford, making it 2-1.
This goal was ultimately the victory, and thanks to this Croatia qualified for the first time in its history for a World Cup final, where on Sunday it will face France, while in the small final on Saturday England and Belgium will claim the third position.
