FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 : Croatia End Russia’s Dream Run , Enter Semis After A Tough Encounter

Picture Courtesy : Sporting News

Host nation Russia’s dream run at the World Cup 2018 came to an end in the quarter- finals . In a tough encounter Russia went down to Croatia . The match was decided by penalty- shootouts as both teams were 2-2 after extra- time.

Denis Cheryshev’s 25-yard trike in the 31st minute gave Russia the lead. But it was short-lived as Croatia pulled level through Andrej Kramaric’s header in the 39th minute. Later Croatia took the lead thanks to Domagoj Vida gave header in the 101st minute.

Just when one thought Croatia would seal the match , Russia kept their hopes alive with Mario Fernandes. Fernandes got Russia the equaliser in the 115th minute to send the match to penalty shootout. Much to the delight of the huge home crowd who were passionately backing the home team.

During the dreaded shoo- out , Brozovic gave Croatia the lead after Fyodor Smolov had his hot saved by Subasic. It became 1-1 when Alan Dzagoev scored and Mateo Kovacic flopped.

Fernandes sent the ball wide of the mark while captain Modric handed Croatia a 2-1 lead. In Russia’s next two attempts, Sergei Ignasevich and Kuzyayev were successful but as did Vida and Ivan Rakitic to give Croatia a 4-3 triumph.

Croatia will; now take on England in the semi- finals. While the other semi-finals will see Belgium take on 1998 winner France