Modric plays full Nations League match for Croatia while Varane subs off with injury

Modrić

Luka Modrić started and played a full 90-minute performance for Croatia in their Nations League finale against Portugal.

Both Modrić and former Madrid teammate Mateo Kovačić faced off against their other former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo. Portugal were able to win the match 3-2 with a 10-man advantage after Marko Rog was sent off shortly after the half resumed.

While Modric played well and was involved in Croatia’s attack, Kovačić took the spotlight as he scored both the first and last goals of the match. It looked like Modrić and Croatia would force a draw until center-back Rúben Dias scored his second goal in the 90th minute.

This now marks Croatia’s third straight loss as they are third in Group C. Modrić and co. are likely relieved that international football is over now for a while.

Varane

Elsewhere in the Nations League, Raphael Varane played the first half for France in their 4-2 win over Sweden. He was subbed off at the half after facing an apparent injury. It is not believed to be severe at this time and there’s still a chance he plays for Real Madrid against Villarreal this weekend.

For the limited time he did play, Varane played fairly well paired with Presnel Kimpembe. Sweden’s Viktor Claesson scored just four minutes in after deflecting a shot off of Varane and past Hugo Lloris. Other than the mistake, the French defense played well.

France topped Group C while Sweden bottomed out, losing out just to Croatia on goal differential.

Vinicius

Vinicius was on the bench in Brazil’s 2-0 World Cup qualifier win over Uruguay. Despite the 20-year-old not being involved, they took the victory to remain at the top of their qualifying group.