Italy secures Euro 2024 last-16 spot with late equaliser against Croatia

Italy advanced to the last 16 of Euro 2024 after a thrilling 1-1 draw against Croatia in Leipzig. Mattia Zaccagni scored a stunning equaliser in the dying moments of the match, cancelling out Luka Modric's earlier goal. The result means Italy finishes second in Group B, setting up a knockout clash with Switzerland, while Croatia's hopes of progression are hanging by a thread as they sit with just two points.

Luka Modric had given Croatia the lead with a close-range finish after Gianluigi Donnarumma saved his penalty attempt. The Croatian captain, who received a standing ovation when substituted, appeared to have secured a vital win for his team. However, Zaccagni's late strike transformed the narrative, leaving Croatia needing favourable results in other matches to avoid an early exit from the tournament.

Italy struggled to find their rhythm for much of the match, with missed opportunities from Alessandro Bastoni and Gianluca Scamacca. The team's frustration was palpable until Zaccagni, a substitute, broke through with his first international goal. His curling effort from the left channel found the far corner, delivering a moment of joy for Italy and heartbreak for Croatia.

The draw marked a poignant moment for Modric, who may have played his final major tournament match. At 38, he has been a pivotal figure for Croatia, but the prospect of further international appearances remains uncertain. As Croatia's chances of advancing diminish, the focus shifts to Italy, who will look to build on this dramatic momentum as they prepare for their next challenge in Berlin.

via Sky Sports