Modric Scores, Kovacic Subs On in 3-0 Victory over Argentina

Luka Modric and Croatia were dominant over Lionel Messi’s Argentina in a 3-0 win. Croatia are the first team in Group D to advance to the Round of 16. With Argentina drawing to Iceland and now losing to Croatia, the pressure is on and there’s a chance they don’t make it out of this group.

The first half was relatively quiet in terms of scoring. It took a horrendous mistake by Willy Caballero in the 53rd minute to open the scoring for Croatia. He dished up the goal on a silver platter to Ante Rébic.

It took a while for another goal to be scored for Croatia, but Argentina did have their own chances. They finally brought Paulo Dybala in, someone who should’ve started last match and tonight’s.

Modric, who was great all night, would score the 2nd goal for Croatia on a beautiful long-range shot. A fantastic solo effort that was finished off with grace.

Mateo Kovacic was brought on shortly after Modric’s goal made his presence known in injury time. The first minute of injury time saw Kovacic unselfishly pass an opportunity to Rakitic for a tap-into make it 3-0 Croatia.

Croatia showed they were clearly the better side throughout and Argentina looked outclassed. Their midfield and goaltending failed them and could end up costing them a trip to the knockout stage.

With Croatia moving on, Argentina need a miracle because their chances are now 33% of making it out of Group D. Modric and Kovacic will play next Tuesday when Croatia plays Iceland.