Not for Russia the advantage of playing all their games in one stadium, they are off to Sochi for this one. Will home advance be enough to overcome technically superior opponents? 35 minutes in ITV finally turn their attention to tonight’s game. You can guess what they had been talking about beforehand. Croatia in black shirts.
The opening half-hour was similar to the earlier game even though the quality was a lot higher, but Russia suddenly produced a stunning goal as Cheryshev picked up a Dzyuba passs and slammed it home. Within ten minutes however, Mandzukic ran down the wing and chipped in for Kramaric to nod in. Decent game now at last.
Croatia seemed to be getting on top in the second period and almost went in front with a shot off the inside of the post. But it always looked likely to go to an extra thirty minutes. Drama right at the end though as Subasic apparently pulled a hamstring while collecting an innocuous shot. All subs had been used so Croatia would have to wait until extra time to replace him with their fourth sub. Bizarrely though he recovered.
Croatia had to make their final sub anyway six minutes in so had to hope that their ‘keeper - and Mandzukic who was also hobbling about - lasted the remaining twenty-four. Despite that, Vida headed down a corner and Corluka may or may not have got the slightest touch to send the ball trickling over the line.
Although the Croatians appeared to be out on their feet in the second period they somehow still managed to look more dangerous. Russia had their moments but couldn’t mount any sustained pressure. The equaliser though came - from a free-kick naturally - as Fernandes powered in a header.
“I can’t pretend it’s been a great game” said Jon Champion (who presumably didn’t see the earlier pile of dross) as it went to penalties.
A couple of poor Russian spot-kicks - one easily saved, one screwed wide - allowed Rakitic to clinch it for Croatia.
No doubt the better side has got through, but they will have to recover quickly for Wednesday’s semi after a draining night.
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