In a riveting match between Italy and Croatia at the EURO 2024, Italy clinched a 1-1 draw thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s last-minute goal. The game witnessed some incredible saves from both goalkeepers, with Luka Modric missing an opportunity to score after being denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma’s spectacular save. However, Italy managed to pull ahead with Alessandro Bastoni’s header being well saved by Dominik Livakovic.
Italy made some tactical changes in the second half, switching to a 3-5-2 formation with players such as Mateo Retegui, Giacomo Raspadori, and Matteo Darmian coming in. Federico Dimarco also started despite having a calf issue. Meanwhile, Croatia maintained their veteran midfield trio and started Luka Sucic and Mario Pasalic.
Despite the changes in tactics, both teams played fiercely until the final whistle blew. In the end, it was Italy that emerged victorious after Davide Frattesi’s handball led to a penalty for Croatia that Modric failed to convert as Donnarumma made another brilliant save. But just when it seemed like Croatia had lost all hope, Zaccagni scored a stunning goal in the 98th minute to tie things up and secure a place in the Round of 16 for Italy.
The match will now be remembered as one of intense competition and skillful play between two talented teams who gave their all on the field.
