EURO 2024: Italy beats Croatia at stoppage time to reach round of 16

Italy’s late equaliser, secured by Mattia Zaccagni in the final minute of stoppage time, broke Croatia’s hearts and guaranteed the reigning champions’ ticket to the Euro 2024 last 16.

After smashing a shot into the roof of the net early in the second half, Luka Modric felt he had won it for Croatia, sending them through as runners-up in Group B.

That came after he had seen a penalty saved, but the swift response to that setback looked like it would be enough for the Croatians.

But Italy levelled in stoppage time when Zaccagni curled home in the 98th minute to ensure they go through with group winners Spain.

It was a cruel blow for Croatia, who had been minutes away from progressing but two points is now unlikely to be enough to finish as one of the best third-placed teams.

The result means Italy will play Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday, 29 June.

(BBC)