In a dramatic finale at Euro 2024, Italy clinched a spot in the knockout stage thanks to a sensational last-gasp goal from substitute Mattia Zaccagni. The Azzurri’s 1-1 draw against Croatia on Monday was sealed in the dying moments of stoppage time, leaving Croatia’s hopes hanging by a thread. Luka Modric, who earlier etched his name into history as the oldest scorer in the tournament, looked set to be the hero for Croatia, but Zaccagni’s intervention changed the narrative completely.
Dramatic Finale in Leipzig
The tension was palpable as the match entered its final moments in Leipzig. Croatia, leading 1-0 courtesy of Modric’s earlier goal, seemed poised to snatch the victory that would propel them into the next round as Group B runner-up. However, Italy, the defending champions, had other plans. In a moment of sheer brilliance in the 98th minute, Zaccagni, with composure under immense pressure, curled a stunning shot inside the far post, leaving the Croatian goalkeeper helpless. The Italian bench erupted in celebration, while Croatian hearts sank as their Euro 2024 journey teetered on the brink.
Croatia’s coach, Zlatko Dalic, voiced his frustration with the extensive added time, arguing that eight minutes was excessive given the flow of the game. “You can’t have eight minutes of added time after that game, it’s nonsense,” Dalic stated, reflecting the bitter disappointment of seeing victory slip away in such dramatic fashion. He felt that Croatia’s efforts and performance deserved more recognition, lamenting what he perceived as a lack of respect for his team.
Modric’s Record-Breaking Goal and Penalty Drama
The game was filled with twists and turns, and a pivotal moment arrived in the second half when Croatia was awarded a penalty. Luka Modric, the Croatian captain and talisman, stepped up to take the spot kick, but Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma proved equal to the task, pulling off a crucial save. However, Modric’s resilience shone through immediately. Just 33 seconds later, Croatia launched another attack, and after Donnarumma saved an initial shot from Ante Budimir, Modric was on hand to pounce on the rebound, slotting the ball home.
This goal not only gave Croatia the lead but also made Modric the oldest player to ever score at the European Championship, at the age of 38 years and 289 days. He surpassed the previous record held by Ivica Vastic. The Croatian fans in the stadium erupted in jubilation, their celebrations so fervent that beer showers rained down as cups were thrown into the air.
Croatia’s Disappointment and Dalic’s Reaction
Despite Modric’s historic goal and Croatia’s valiant effort, Zaccagni’s late equalizer dramatically altered their fate. Croatia finished the group stage with just two points from their three matches. Their progression to the knockout rounds now depends on a complex set of results from other groups, making their chances slim. Dalic’s post-match comments reflected a sense of resignation, suggesting he believed their tournament journey was likely over.
Italy’s Perspective and Spalletti’s Comments
For Italy, a draw was enough to secure their passage to the round of 16, and they will now face Switzerland in Berlin. Italy’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, admitted that his team’s performance wasn’t their best. “We were a bit soft at times in the game, we didn’t produce our best football,” Spalletti acknowledged. He suggested that knowing a draw was sufficient might have contributed to a more cautious approach from his players.
However, Spalletti dismissed concerns about Italy being behind late in the game, emphasizing that managing pressure is inherent in his role. “Worries and concerns are part and parcel of this job,” he stated, focusing on the ultimate objective achieved: securing qualification. Italy now looks ahead to their match against Switzerland, hoping to build momentum and demonstrate their full potential as they progress further in Euro 2024.
