Team reporter analysis

Diego Zandrino with Argentina (follow on Twitter | Facebook) A nightmare! That is what the match became for an Argentina side that lacked both the invention and the desire to turn their night around after falling behind to a costly goalkeeping error. Their hopes of reaching the knockout phase are now hanging by a thread.

Vjekoslav Paun with Croatia (follow on Twitter | Facebook) Another night to remember for Croatia. Argentina began the evening full of intent and dominating possession. Ante Rebic’s volley from a goalkeeping error was followed by goals from Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic, as the Vatreni recorded a first ever World Cup win over South American opposition. Coach Zlatko Dalic had described the match as a test for this generation of players, one they passed with ease.

Budweiser Man of the Match

Luka Modric did more than just score a stunning goal to put his side 2-0 up. Taking on a playmaking role, he showcased his class in orchestrating Croatia’s attacks.

The stat In their four previous world finals meetings with South American sides, Croatia experienced nothing but defeat, while their only goal in those four outings was an own goal in the 2014 encounter with Brazil. Make no mistake, this was a historic night for the Croatians.

What’s next

Nigeria-Argentina, Group D, 26 June, Saint Petersburg Iceland-Croatia, Group D, 26 June, Rostov-on-Don

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