Farewell to the Queen: Croatia Makes Its First Ever World Cup Final
In a stunning upset for England, Croatia have made it to the finals of the World Cup thanks to an extra time goal by the little team that could.
After battling it out in extra time for the third consecutive match, Croatia’s ability to beat the odds were again on display when Mario Mandzukic netted home the winner in the 109th minute.
England’s young side dominated with possession in the first half and took the lead early on in the fifth minute when Kieran Trippier scored his first ever international goal from a stunning free kick.
England’s elation lasted until the second half when Ivan Perisic scored from a well-placed cross from Sime Vrsaljko that levelled the score to 1-1.
It was Perisic again that would prove to be a threat as he hit the post in a deft move that evaded the attempts of Kyle Walker. Ante Rebic made contact with the rebound but was ultimately unable to capitalise on it as the ball landed in England keeper Jordan Pickford’s lap.
It hurts a lot. It will hurt for a while. We can be proud and we’ll be back. Thanks for all your support. #ThreeLions #ENG #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/mJKOWtAOlK
— Harry Kane (@HKane) July 11, 2018
Really tough right now but this team’s special.. we’ll be back. Hopefully this is the start of the future 🏴 #ThreeLions pic.twitter.com/uqiK8GFN9S
— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) July 11, 2018
Far exceeded expectations. Well done @England and well done @GarethSouthgate you have been brilliant. Given us great entertainment and found a system and given us hope. #threelions #RussiaWorldCup2018
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) July 11, 2018
Was an honour to represent my country at the world cup. The squad we have is a great bunch of lads who are willing to learn and give everything and we can hold our heads high. Thank you to everyone who supported our journey 👏🏾 we dont stop here! ⬆ #ThreeLions 🦁🦁🦁 pic.twitter.com/QuZ6XOmgOj
— Jesse Lingard (@JesseLingard) July 11, 2018
England, of course, are heartbroken as their hopes to win the World Cup for only the second time were shattered by a side that just would not quit.
After an agonising history of missed penalties, group stage exits and even conceding defeat to Iceland at the Euros two years ago, this only seems to be another chapter in that rather sad tale.
Regardless of the outcome, Croatia can pride themselves on making history and giving themselves a shot at the ultimate prize.
Related: Sol Campbell Thinks France is the Best Team in the World Cup
