Croatia 1-1 Italy – Zaccagni's Last-Second Strike Sends Italy Through and Crushes Croatian Hopes

A pulsating finish to the Euro 2024 clash between Italy and Croatia saw Lazio’s Mattia Zaccagni net a breathtaking last-second equaliser securing Italy’s spot in the knockout stages and crushing Croatian dreams after Luka Modric had seemingly sealed their fate. Italy's relentless pursuit finally bore fruit when Zaccagni struck with the final meaningful touch of the match.

Substitute Mattia Zaccagni's stoppage-time heroics propelled Italy into the last 16 of Euro 2024 following a gripping 1-1 draw with Croatia in Leipzig.

Luka Modric appeared to have clinched the win for Croatia when the 38-year-old veteran went from agony to ecstasy in the 54^th minute. His initial penalty was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma yet he quickly redeemed himself by scoring from the rebound sending Croatian fans into euphoria. Italy however kept pressing for an equaliser. Alessandro Bastoni squandered a crucial header but Zaccagni eventually fired a superb shot into the far corner salvaging a point for the Azzurri in the dying moments.

This result saw Italy clinch second place in Group B trailing group leaders Spain. Croatia with just two points and a -3 goal difference now face the grim reality of likely not advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. Albania finishing at the bottom of the group also bowed out despite having had some memorable moments.

Italy will now face Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday in Berlin (17:00 BST kickoff).

Talking Point: Modric and Croatia's Heartbreaking End

Croatian players lay devastated at the final whistle. Seconds away from securing a spot in the last 16 Zaccagni's late equaliser all but dashed their hopes of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.

This result may signify the end of an era for Croatia’s aging squad which has delivered many memorable performances on the international stage. While questions lingered about the stamina of Croatia's veteran stars they have always risen to the occasion until this tournament.

Italy on the other hand felt vindicated by the draw given the match’s flow over 90 minutes. However the narrow escape will undoubtedly lead to scrutiny of Luciano Spalletti and his squad as they brace for the challenges ahead.

Player of the Match: Luka Modric (Croatia)

Luka Modric showcased his brilliance with a stellar second-half display. Despite missing a penalty he quickly composed himself to score what looked like the winning goal until Italy's last-minute equaliser.

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