Croatia’s national football team showcased their expertise in extra time as they defeated the Netherlands with a 4-2 triumph to secure a spot in the Nations League final. Bruno Petkovic and Luka Modric were the heroes for Zlatko Dalic’s side, scoring crucial goals in the additional period. This victory brings Croatia one step closer to claiming their first-ever Nations League trophy and emphasizes their reputation as specialists in extra time.
After Donyell Malen gave the Netherlands an early lead, Croatia fought back in the second half with goals from Andrej Kramaric and Mario Pasalic. However, Noa Lang’s 96th-minute equalizer forced the match into extra time. It was then that Petkovic broke free from Frenkie de Jong and unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box to put Croatia in the lead just eight minutes into the additional period. Modric sealed the victory with a penalty.
For Croatia’s elder statesmen, including Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric, the Nations League represents one of their last opportunities to taste international success. Coach Zlatko Dalic expressed his joy at the victory, highlighting that it is a triumph for the Croatian people and praising their resilience and dedication to their country.
Croatia has been in excellent form, with only one defeat in their last 16 matches, coming at the hands of World Cup winners Argentina. Their victory over the Netherlands dashed the Dutch team’s hopes of securing their first major competition win since the 1988 European Championship. The Netherlands had finished as runners-up in the inaugural Nations League against Portugal in 2019, while France claimed the title in 2021.
Netherland Captain Diappointed
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk expressed disappointment at the loss, acknowledging that his team fought valiantly but fell short. The match saw promising young talents such as Donyell Malen and Xavi Simons in action, but the Netherlands couldn’t maintain their advantage.
The game started slowly, with both teams feeling the effects of a long season that included the World Cup. However, Croatia emerged stronger in the second half, and their experience showed as they mounted a comeback. Luka Modric, at 37 years old and earning his 165th cap for Croatia, played a pivotal role, winning a penalty that Kramaric converted.
Croatia’s victory sets up an exciting Nations League final, with Spain and Italy set to face off in the other semi-final. As Croatia aims for their first major trophy, their sights firmly set on achieving gold and completing their story of success in the tournament.
