Stay updated on Italy’s thrilling journey in EURO 2024 as they secure a spot in the knockouts with a dramatic late goal against Croatia. Follow all the action on our website!
Introduction
In a dramatic turn of events, Italy edged out Croatia for second place in their final UEFA EURO 2024 Group B match in Leipzig, thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th-minute equalizer. This result ensured Italy’s advancement to the knockout stages, where they will face Switzerland.
Match Highlights
Donnarumma’s Early Save:
Gianluigi Donnarumma set the tone for the match with a crucial early intervention. In the 5th minute, Luka Sučić unleashed a powerful 25-meter drive that was heading straight for the top corner. Donnarumma, showcasing his agility and quick reflexes, leaped to his left and managed to tip the ball over the bar, preventing an early lead for Croatia.
See also: Kevin Csoboth’s Late Goal Sealed Hungary’s 1-0 Triumph Over Scotland
Retegui’s Narrow Miss:
Italy almost seized the initiative in the 21st minute when Riccardo Calafiori delivered a precise cross into the box. Mateo Retegui, well-positioned, rose above the Croatian defenders to meet the ball with his head. Unfortunately for the Azzurri, his effort went just wide of the post, missing a golden opportunity to put Italy ahead.
Livaković’s Reflexes Tested:
Croatia’s goalkeeper, Dominik Livaković, demonstrated his shot-stopping abilities in the 27th minute. Alessandro Bastoni connected with a pinpoint cross from Nicolò Barella, directing a powerful header towards goal. Livaković reacted with lightning speed, tipping the ball over the crossbar and denying Italy a clear scoring chance, keeping the match scoreless.
Mid-Match Drama
Modrić’s Penalty Saved:
A critical moment unfolded in the 54th minute when Davide Frattesi handled Andrej Kramarić’s goal-bound shot, resulting in a penalty for Croatia. Luka Modrić stepped up to take the spot-kick, aiming to give his team the lead. However, Gianluigi Donnarumma was once again Italy’s savior, diving low to his left to make a crucial save and keep the score level.
Modrić’s Immediate Response:
Despite the setback of his missed penalty, Luka Modrić showcased his resilience and determination almost immediately. In the 55th minute, just moments after his penalty save, Modrić capitalized on a rebound after Donnarumma parried Ante Budimir’s shot. The Croatian captain was quick to react, slotting the ball into the net to put Croatia ahead and redeeming himself for the earlier miss.
See also: Ferran Torres Leads Spain to 1-0 Victory Against Albania in EURO 2024
Bastoni’s Miss:
Italy had a chance to level the score again in the 61st minute. Alessandro Bastoni found himself in a promising position, rising to meet a cross from close range. Unfortunately for the Azzurri, Bastoni’s header went over the crossbar, squandering a golden opportunity and maintaining the tension in a tightly contested match.
Late Drama
In the dying moments of the match, Mattia Zaccagni emerged as Italy’s hero with a dramatic equalizer. With the clock deep into stoppage time, Riccardo Calafiori delivered a precise pass to Zaccagni. The forward skillfully controlled the ball and, with a swift and precise movement, bent his strike around Dominik Livaković. The ball curled perfectly into the net, leaving the Croatian goalkeeper with no chance. This last-minute goal was pivotal, ensuring Italy’s progression to the round of 16 and securing a crucial point in a fiercely contested match.
Tactical Overview
Croatia initially dominated possession, reflecting their intent to control the game. However, Italy’s new 3-5-2 system gradually allowed them to grow into the contest. The Italian defense, led by Donnarumma, proved resilient, while their attack tested Livaković repeatedly.
Line-Ups:
Croatia: Goalkeeper: Livaković, Defenders: Stanišić, Šutalo, Pongračić, Gvardiol, Midfielders: Modrić (Majer 80), Brozović, Kovačić (Ivanušec 70), Forwards: Sučić (Perišić 70), Kramarić (Juranović 90), Mario Pašalić (Budimir 46)
Italy: Goalkeeper: Donnarumma, Defenders: Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Darmian (Zaccagni 81), Midfielders: Barella, Jorginho (Fagioli 81), Raspadori (Scamacca 75), Pellegrini (Frattesi 46), Dimarco (Chiesa 57), Forward: Retegui
Conclusion: Italy’s thrilling journey
Italy’s late equalizer secured a crucial point against Croatia, ensuring their progression to the knockout stages of UEFA EURO 2024. This match highlighted the resilience and tactical prowess of both teams, with standout performances from Donnarumma, Modrić, and Zaccagni. As Italy prepares to face Switzerland, their ability to perform under pressure will be crucial for their continued success in the tournament.
