Croatia booked their first ever World Cup final appearance as they also became only the 13th nation to qualify for the final of the World Cup. Ivan Perisic was vital for Croatia, as they came back from a goal down to overcome the Three Lions; the Inter Milan winger scoring the equalizer and providing the assist for the winning goal.
Kieran Trippier scored a sumptuous free kick in the fifth minute to give the Three Lions an early lead. The 1966 champions continued to dominate, Kane coming close only for Subasic to recover quickly. Croatia had chances of their own but they were unable to make any of them count.
For the third consecutive game, Croatia had to head into extra time; with the game level at full-time. As expected, England threatened on every set piece but the Croatian defence was up to the task, thwarting every effort away and in the end it was Perisic who was vital once again; winning an ariel duel that fell to the unmarked Mandzukic who made no mistake from close range; tucking the ball under Jordan Pickford.
Croatia held on for the win to ensure they storm into the finals against France after an impressive campaign as the dejected England side take on Belgium in Saturday’s consolation.
