In a must-win encounter for Croatia’s Nations League ambitions, Josko Gvardiol’s timely header canceled out Joao Felix’s first-half opener, securing a 1-1 draw against Portugal and sealing Croatia’s passage to the quarter-finals.
Also Read: UNL Match Report! Croatia vs Portugal Match Updates, News and Scores (18th November, 2024)
Played at the electric Stadion Poljud, the match showcased grit and drama as both teams battled in Split.
Portugal, having already clinched their Nations League group, rested key players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes. Even so, they started aggressively, dominating possession and limiting Croatia’s options.
Portugal’s breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Joao Felix finished a brilliantly executed move. Vitinha’s exquisite ball over Croatia’s shaky defense set Felix up to finish with poise.
The goal was briefly reviewed by VAR but ultimately stood, adding to the tension of the first half.
Croatia responded after the break, applying relentless pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when Josko Gvardiol headed in an equalizer, though his initial attempt was ruled out for offside.
The Manchester City star finally found the net minutes later, sparking wild celebrations. Croatia’s improved performance post-half-time emphasized their determination to fight for their Nations League dreams.
Croatia’s performance relied on standout players like Luka Modric, whose brilliance in midfield anchored the team, and Gvardiol, whose defensive acumen and goal proved decisive.
On the Portuguese side, Vitinha shone brightest, orchestrating play from midfield with finesse and precision. His incredible assist for Felix’s goal underlined his growing reputation as a creative powerhouse.
Croatia Player Ratings
Dominik Livakovic: 6/10 – Poor positioning for Felix’s goal but made an excellent save late in the second half.
Josko Gvardiol: 8.5/10 – Solid defensively and a crucial presence in midfield, scoring the equalizer.
Duje Caleta-Car: 5/10 – Struggled to contain Portugal’s attackers, relying heavily on Gvardiol.
Josip Sutalo: 6/10 – Brave but inconsistent, often outmatched by Portugal’s forwards.
Ivan Perisic: 5/10 – Ineffective despite finding some good positions on the left flank.
Mateo Kovacic: 6/10 – Energetic but unimpactful, later taken off with an injury.
Luka Modric: 7/10 – Commanded the midfield, picking Portuguese pockets with his intelligence.
Borna Sosa: 7/10 – Balanced defensively and offensively until his early exit.
Andrej Kramaric: 5/10 – Showed brief flashes of intent but lacked finishing.
Igor Matanovic: 4/10 – Had little impact in the first half but worked well defensively.
Martin Baturina: 4/10 – Limited touches and influence, largely ineffective.
Substitutes:
Mario Pasalic (45’): 5/10 – Showed bravery but was often dispossessed.
Kristijan Jakic (45’): 6/10 – Crucial assist for Gvardiol’s equalizer and showed great determination.
Luka Sucic (58’): 6/10 – Injected energy and contributed to the team’s overall fight.
Ante Budimir (63’): 4/10 – Missed a key chance from close range.
Nikola Moro (78’): 3/10 – Too little time to make an impact.
Portugal Player Ratings
Jose Sa: 6/10 – Quiet first half but caught off guard for Gvardiol’s goal.
Nelson Semedo: 6/10 – Effective on the right flank, rarely beaten defensively.
Tomas Araujo: 7/10 – A solid presence in central defense, earning praise for his composure.
Renato Viega: 8/10 – Key defensive blocks and excellent positioning throughout.
Nuno Mendes: 7.5/10 – A creative outlet with a perfect ball to Leao, though underutilized.
Joao Neves: 8/10 – Controlled the midfield, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
Otavio: 7/10 – Grew into the game, improving as it progressed.
Vitinha: 9/10 – Man of the Match with a brilliant assist and excellent playmaking.
Joao Cancelo: 8/10 – Vital both defensively and offensively, adding a unique dynamic to Portugal’s approach.
Joao Felix: 8.5/10 – Showed creativity and scored Portugal’s goal with finesse.
Rafael Leao: 6.5/10 – A consistent threat but let down by poor finishing.
Substitutes:
Tiago Djalo (63’): 5/10 – Performed admirably after replacing Araujo.
Fabio Silva (71’): 3/10 – Provided little impact during his senior debut.
Chico Conceicao (71’): 4/10 – Had minimal possession and influence.
Diogo Dalot (71’): 4/10 – Brought defensive reinforcements but limited attacking presence.
Vitinha’s masterclass and Croatia’s spirited fight made this a memorable clash, highlighting the quality on both sides.
