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..::Football IV::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
patta match eka.
Full Time ET
(3-4 PEN)
Russia 2 Vs 2 Croatia
Russia Goal(s)
D.Cheryshev 31'
M.Fernandes 115'
&
Croatia Goal(s)
A.Kramaric 39'
D.Vida 100'
(3-4 PEN)
Russia Goal(s)
D.Cheryshev 31'
M.Fernandes 115'
&
Croatia Goal(s)
A.Kramaric 39'
D.Vida 100'
Last edited:
Russia 2 Croatia 2 (aet, 3-4 on penalties): Rakitic sets up England semi-final showdown
Croatia reached the World Cup semi-finals for the second time in their history with Ivan Rakitic again the hero in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory over Russia.
Rakitic slotted home the winning kick against Denmark in the last 16 and once again held his nerve to convert from the spot, with Mario Fernandes going from hero to villain by missing from 12 yards after his 115th-minute header had made it 2-2 deep into extra time.
After ending the home side's incredible run, Zlatko Dalic's side will aim to at least go one better than the famous 1998 vintage that finished third in France when they meet England at the Luzhniki Stadium on Wednesday.
Denis Cheryshev got Russia off to a brilliant start by marking his return to the starting line-up with yet another contender for goal of the tournament after his stunning efforts against Saudi Arabia and Egypt in the group stage, but Andrej Kramaric equalised just eight minutes later.
Domagoj Vida headed Luka Modric's corner home 10 minutes into the first extra period, only for Fernandes, the Brazil-born defender who was only granted Russia citizenship by president Vladimir Putin two years ago, to keep Russia’s hopes alive in a dramatic finish.
However, it was not to be for the resilient hosts, with goalkeeper Danijel Subasic saving Fedor Smolov's penalty and Fernandes firing wide before Rakitic kept his composure to put Croatia one match away from the final.
Croatia reached the World Cup semi-finals for the second time in their history with Ivan Rakitic again the hero in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory over Russia.
Rakitic slotted home the winning kick against Denmark in the last 16 and once again held his nerve to convert from the spot, with Mario Fernandes going from hero to villain by missing from 12 yards after his 115th-minute header had made it 2-2 deep into extra time.
After ending the home side's incredible run, Zlatko Dalic's side will aim to at least go one better than the famous 1998 vintage that finished third in France when they meet England at the Luzhniki Stadium on Wednesday.
Denis Cheryshev got Russia off to a brilliant start by marking his return to the starting line-up with yet another contender for goal of the tournament after his stunning efforts against Saudi Arabia and Egypt in the group stage, but Andrej Kramaric equalised just eight minutes later.
Domagoj Vida headed Luka Modric's corner home 10 minutes into the first extra period, only for Fernandes, the Brazil-born defender who was only granted Russia citizenship by president Vladimir Putin two years ago, to keep Russia’s hopes alive in a dramatic finish.
However, it was not to be for the resilient hosts, with goalkeeper Danijel Subasic saving Fedor Smolov's penalty and Fernandes firing wide before Rakitic kept his composure to put Croatia one match away from the final.
Batshuayi in Sevilla's sights amid uncertain future at Chelsea
Michy Batshuayi is among the transfer targets being considered by Sevilla, with the Chelsea striker facing an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge.Despite boasting a decent strike rate of 19 goals in 53 appearances for the Blues, the Belgium international has found regular starts hard to come by in England.
With Antonio Conte reluctant to put his faith in the 24-year-old, and with Olivier Giroud snapped up from Arsenal, Batshuayi was allowed to join Borussia Dortmund on loan in January.
An unfortunate injury brought his 2017-18 campaign to a premature conclusion, but he had netted nine times in Germany and is currently on World Cup 2018 duty.
It remains to be seen what Chelsea have planned for him, with Conte’s position continuing to be called into question, and there are several clubs waiting to see the exit door opened.Sevilla are among those, with the Liga club’s sporting director, Joaquin Caparros, telling reporters at the unveiling of Tomas Vaclik: “For Sevilla, few footballers are out of reach.
“It is true some of them could be economically impossible, but other ways can be found to sign him.“Everything is open, and we can’t say no because then maybe they can come and we can get them. Absolutely nothing is discarded.”
Before heading to Russia this summer, Batshuayi stated that he would only enter into discussions regarding his future once his international commitments were over.He said: "Dortmund was a great experience for me."They welcomed me very warmly. I was in a good environment and you could see that on the pitch.
"It was a while since I had played so much. I can't remember being allowed to play two games in a row at Chelsea. It was good to gain confidence."I don't have a preference; they're two beautiful clubs. My focus is on the World Cup right now and I don't want to think about what happens afterwards."
Belgium are still chasing down World Cup glory, with a 2-1 victory over Brazil on Friday seeing them set up a semi-final showdown with France.
Michy Batshuayi is among the transfer targets being considered by Sevilla, with the Chelsea striker facing an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge.Despite boasting a decent strike rate of 19 goals in 53 appearances for the Blues, the Belgium international has found regular starts hard to come by in England.
With Antonio Conte reluctant to put his faith in the 24-year-old, and with Olivier Giroud snapped up from Arsenal, Batshuayi was allowed to join Borussia Dortmund on loan in January.
An unfortunate injury brought his 2017-18 campaign to a premature conclusion, but he had netted nine times in Germany and is currently on World Cup 2018 duty.
It remains to be seen what Chelsea have planned for him, with Conte’s position continuing to be called into question, and there are several clubs waiting to see the exit door opened.Sevilla are among those, with the Liga club’s sporting director, Joaquin Caparros, telling reporters at the unveiling of Tomas Vaclik: “For Sevilla, few footballers are out of reach.
“It is true some of them could be economically impossible, but other ways can be found to sign him.“Everything is open, and we can’t say no because then maybe they can come and we can get them. Absolutely nothing is discarded.”
Before heading to Russia this summer, Batshuayi stated that he would only enter into discussions regarding his future once his international commitments were over.He said: "Dortmund was a great experience for me."They welcomed me very warmly. I was in a good environment and you could see that on the pitch.
"It was a while since I had played so much. I can't remember being allowed to play two games in a row at Chelsea. It was good to gain confidence."I don't have a preference; they're two beautiful clubs. My focus is on the World Cup right now and I don't want to think about what happens afterwards."
Belgium are still chasing down World Cup glory, with a 2-1 victory over Brazil on Friday seeing them set up a semi-final showdown with France.
Blanc: Mbappe & Hazard are phenomenons!
Former France boss Laurent Blanc has hailed Kylian Mbappe and Eden Hazard as “phenomenons”.The pair will go head to head in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday, when France will tackle Belgium in St Petersburg.
Both players have been key as their respective sides have won through to the final four, with Mbappe notably shining against Argentina, while Hazard has impressed with a string of excellent displays, the latest of which came in the 2-1 victory over Brazil in the quarter-final.Blanc has been particularly impressed by the 19-year-old Frenchman but has warned that it is too early to expect too much from him consistently.
“My opinion’s not changed on him for 10 months: he’s a phenomenon,” he told Le Parisien. “That’s not to say he’ll make us win all the time. He’s young. He’s still going to misfire sometimes – as little as possible, I hope for him and the France team.
“We must be patient with young players. But he’s got more than talent.“He’s a guy who can scare defenders. The whole team benefits from the fear that the opposition have for him. That’s good for the collective. “At 19, you can’t have everything. It’s not possible. I hope that he won’t be perturbed. I hope we’ll see the fullness of his talents for a long time.”
Sounded out as a possible alternative to Maurizio Sarri for the Chelsea job, Blanc does not believe France will have it easy against Belgium.“They’ve got a phenomenon of their own with Eden Hazard,” he pointed out. “They’ve a very effective system, especially on the counterattack. Brazil were victims of that.
“They’ve players who stick to the game plan. It’ll be complicated because they’ve made a very good impression. Their attacking trio is excellent.”
Former France boss Laurent Blanc has hailed Kylian Mbappe and Eden Hazard as “phenomenons”.The pair will go head to head in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday, when France will tackle Belgium in St Petersburg.
Both players have been key as their respective sides have won through to the final four, with Mbappe notably shining against Argentina, while Hazard has impressed with a string of excellent displays, the latest of which came in the 2-1 victory over Brazil in the quarter-final.Blanc has been particularly impressed by the 19-year-old Frenchman but has warned that it is too early to expect too much from him consistently.
“My opinion’s not changed on him for 10 months: he’s a phenomenon,” he told Le Parisien. “That’s not to say he’ll make us win all the time. He’s young. He’s still going to misfire sometimes – as little as possible, I hope for him and the France team.
“We must be patient with young players. But he’s got more than talent.“He’s a guy who can scare defenders. The whole team benefits from the fear that the opposition have for him. That’s good for the collective. “At 19, you can’t have everything. It’s not possible. I hope that he won’t be perturbed. I hope we’ll see the fullness of his talents for a long time.”
Sounded out as a possible alternative to Maurizio Sarri for the Chelsea job, Blanc does not believe France will have it easy against Belgium.“They’ve got a phenomenon of their own with Eden Hazard,” he pointed out. “They’ve a very effective system, especially on the counterattack. Brazil were victims of that.
“They’ve players who stick to the game plan. It’ll be complicated because they’ve made a very good impression. Their attacking trio is excellent.”
Mane: Real Madrid are a great team but there's been no contact
Sadio Mane has acknowledged Real Madrid as a "great team" while maintaining he has had no contact with the club about a prospective transfer from Liverpool.
Madrid could well be in the market for attacking reinforcements with Cristiano Ronaldo heavily linked with a sensational switch to Juventus, who responded to the rumours on Friday by releasing a statement revealing they are "evaluating several opportunities".
Senegal international Mane and Chelsea star Eden Hazard have been touted as potential targets for the La Liga giants should Ronaldo depart for Turin.
Mane, however, claims he has held no discussions with the club he scored against in last season's Champions League final."These are just rumours. I am not aware of anything and haven't been contacted," he told reporters on a visit to his hometown of Bambali.
"I remain a Liverpool player and I will join my team-mates in the United States for the pre-season tour."Real are a great team, but I am focused on my team, Liverpool."
Mane scored once for Senegal at the World Cup in Russia as his nation suffered a group stage exit.He has spent the past two seasons with Liverpool, netting 33 goals in all competitions.
Sadio Mane has acknowledged Real Madrid as a "great team" while maintaining he has had no contact with the club about a prospective transfer from Liverpool.
Madrid could well be in the market for attacking reinforcements with Cristiano Ronaldo heavily linked with a sensational switch to Juventus, who responded to the rumours on Friday by releasing a statement revealing they are "evaluating several opportunities".
Senegal international Mane and Chelsea star Eden Hazard have been touted as potential targets for the La Liga giants should Ronaldo depart for Turin.
Mane, however, claims he has held no discussions with the club he scored against in last season's Champions League final."These are just rumours. I am not aware of anything and haven't been contacted," he told reporters on a visit to his hometown of Bambali.
"I remain a Liverpool player and I will join my team-mates in the United States for the pre-season tour."Real are a great team, but I am focused on my team, Liverpool."
Mane scored once for Senegal at the World Cup in Russia as his nation suffered a group stage exit.He has spent the past two seasons with Liverpool, netting 33 goals in all competitions.
Maguire to partner Van Dijk? England star perfect fit for Liverpool, says Thompson
Harry Maguire “fits Liverpool's philosophy” and would be a perfect partner for Virgil van Dijk, says former Reds captain Phil Thompson.Jurgen Klopp spent big on a new centre-half in January, breaking the club’s transfer record with the £75 million ($100m) deal with Southampton.
Van Dijk slotted seamlessly into the fold an Anfield to help plug defensive leaks, but there is still a sense that further reinforcement is required at the back.
Thompson believes another proven Premier League performer could be the answer, urging Liverpool to make a move for Leicester star Maguire – who is currently impressing for England on World Cup duty.
The ex-Reds defender told the Liverpool Echo: “I’ve been a big fan of Harry Maguire since his days at Hull City.“Since then he’s got better and better. He’s had a fantastic World Cup so far. “I was saying long before the tournament started that he has all the attributes needed to be a Liverpool player.
“He’s big, he’s strong and positionally he’s very good whether as a two or a three at the back.“He’s a lot quicker than people give him credit for. He dominates in the air and that’s a major asset both defensively and offensively.
“He’s also very comfortable on the ball. He’s better than John Stones when it comes to passing it out from the back.“Harry has been one of the best defenders in the World Cup and he certainly fits Liverpool’s philosophy. I can’t speak more highly of him.”
Maguire only joined Leicester from Hull City in the summer of 2017.He was handed a five-year contract by the Foxes, but has sparked interest from afar with his composed performances for club and country over the last 12 months.
Harry Maguire “fits Liverpool's philosophy” and would be a perfect partner for Virgil van Dijk, says former Reds captain Phil Thompson.Jurgen Klopp spent big on a new centre-half in January, breaking the club’s transfer record with the £75 million ($100m) deal with Southampton.
Van Dijk slotted seamlessly into the fold an Anfield to help plug defensive leaks, but there is still a sense that further reinforcement is required at the back.
Thompson believes another proven Premier League performer could be the answer, urging Liverpool to make a move for Leicester star Maguire – who is currently impressing for England on World Cup duty.
The ex-Reds defender told the Liverpool Echo: “I’ve been a big fan of Harry Maguire since his days at Hull City.“Since then he’s got better and better. He’s had a fantastic World Cup so far. “I was saying long before the tournament started that he has all the attributes needed to be a Liverpool player.
“He’s big, he’s strong and positionally he’s very good whether as a two or a three at the back.“He’s a lot quicker than people give him credit for. He dominates in the air and that’s a major asset both defensively and offensively.
“He’s also very comfortable on the ball. He’s better than John Stones when it comes to passing it out from the back.“Harry has been one of the best defenders in the World Cup and he certainly fits Liverpool’s philosophy. I can’t speak more highly of him.”
Maguire only joined Leicester from Hull City in the summer of 2017.He was handed a five-year contract by the Foxes, but has sparked interest from afar with his composed performances for club and country over the last 12 months.
'Liverpool would sell Salah for £200m' - Contract means little if Madrid come calling, says Barnes
Liverpool may have tied Mohamed Salah to a new five-year contract, but John Barnes says they would still sell to Real Madrid if a £200 million ($266m) bid is tabled.The Reds appear to have brought any uncertainty regarding the future of their Egypt international future to a close by agreeing fresh terms.
Salah has regularly stated how happy he is at Anfield, with a 44-goal debut campaign having earned him hero status on the red half of Merseyside.
Barnes has, however, pointed out that money talks in the transfer market and with Madrid currently preparing to part with Cristiano Ronaldo, a sizeable offer from Spain could force any hand.The former Liverpool midfielder told the Daily Star: “Salah signing a new contract doesn’t mean that Liverpool are no longer a selling club.
“Every club is a selling club. If Real Madrid offered £200m for Salah then he’d go and Liverpool would then be a selling club. “Ronaldo might be leaving Real Madrid, [Robert] Lewandowski could leave Bayern Munich.
“Neymar could leave PSG as well so even the biggest clubs in the world are selling clubs.“But what the new contract means is that Salah is committed to Liverpool and wants to stick around and see how far they can go.”
Lewandowski has sparked talk of interest from Madrid for some time, while Brazil international Neymar is also considered to be a future ‘Galactico’.
Liverpool, though, have no intention of parting with Salah and have him as a key part in their plans for 2018-19.
He will be granted an extended break on the back of his World Cup efforts with Egypt but will be back in the picture by the time the new Premier League campaign kicks off against West Ham on August 12.
Liverpool may have tied Mohamed Salah to a new five-year contract, but John Barnes says they would still sell to Real Madrid if a £200 million ($266m) bid is tabled.The Reds appear to have brought any uncertainty regarding the future of their Egypt international future to a close by agreeing fresh terms.
Salah has regularly stated how happy he is at Anfield, with a 44-goal debut campaign having earned him hero status on the red half of Merseyside.
Barnes has, however, pointed out that money talks in the transfer market and with Madrid currently preparing to part with Cristiano Ronaldo, a sizeable offer from Spain could force any hand.The former Liverpool midfielder told the Daily Star: “Salah signing a new contract doesn’t mean that Liverpool are no longer a selling club.
“Every club is a selling club. If Real Madrid offered £200m for Salah then he’d go and Liverpool would then be a selling club. “Ronaldo might be leaving Real Madrid, [Robert] Lewandowski could leave Bayern Munich.
“Neymar could leave PSG as well so even the biggest clubs in the world are selling clubs.“But what the new contract means is that Salah is committed to Liverpool and wants to stick around and see how far they can go.”
Lewandowski has sparked talk of interest from Madrid for some time, while Brazil international Neymar is also considered to be a future ‘Galactico’.
Liverpool, though, have no intention of parting with Salah and have him as a key part in their plans for 2018-19.
He will be granted an extended break on the back of his World Cup efforts with Egypt but will be back in the picture by the time the new Premier League campaign kicks off against West Ham on August 12.
Paulinho considering China return amid offers
Barcelona midfielder Paulinho has confirmed he has an offer to return to the Chinese Super League.
Paulinho joined Barca last August from Guangzhou Evergrande and despite impressing at Camp Nou the 29-year-old has been recently linked with a return to his former club.Speaking after playing in Brazil's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Belgium, Paulinho acknowledged he has offers on the table as he plots his next move.
"I'm going to Barcelona to talk to my representative about this matter," he told reporters."I have an offer from China and another from another club, although it is not certain that I will go. We have to talk."
Although not always a guaranteed starter under Ernesto Valverde last season, Paulinho racked up 49 appearances for the LaLiga and Copa del Rey winners last season, scoring nine goals.
Barcelona midfielder Paulinho has confirmed he has an offer to return to the Chinese Super League.
Paulinho joined Barca last August from Guangzhou Evergrande and despite impressing at Camp Nou the 29-year-old has been recently linked with a return to his former club.Speaking after playing in Brazil's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Belgium, Paulinho acknowledged he has offers on the table as he plots his next move.
"I'm going to Barcelona to talk to my representative about this matter," he told reporters."I have an offer from China and another from another club, although it is not certain that I will go. We have to talk."
Although not always a guaranteed starter under Ernesto Valverde last season, Paulinho racked up 49 appearances for the LaLiga and Copa del Rey winners last season, scoring nine goals.
'It will be a battle' - Croatia will have plenty of energy for England clash, says Dalic
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic insisted his team will be ready for their World Cup semi-final showdown with England despite a gruelling encounter against Russia.
Dalic's Croatia advanced to the final four for the first time since 1998 after winning a penalty shootout 4-3 against hosts Russia in Sochi on Saturday.
Neither team could be separated after extra time, which ended 2-2 following an absorbing and exhausting battle at Fisht Stadium.
But two unsuccessful Russia penalties and Ivan Rakitic's match-winning effort silenced the home crowd and led Dalic to tears afterwards."Congrats to my lads but also to Russia who fought well," Dalic – whose Croatia also survived penalties in the last 16 – said during his post-game news conference. "This wasn't a beautiful game but a fight. A battle for the semis. We were lucky, thank God.
"I was concentrated throughout but after Rakitic's penalty, it came bursting out of me. I felt really relieved. We made ourselves happy but also everybody back home in Croatia happy. I don't cry often but now I have good cause. Croatia are in the semis. This is a great result."We have power left for England. We won't want to stop. We will try to play our best. We have two matches to play. We are very motivated. We are giving our all. It will be a battle again but I believe in us."
England moved in to the semis after outclassing Sweden 2-0 earlier in the day thanks to goals from Harry Maguire and Dele Alli."They breezed past Sweden. They were better. They are young and alive. Attacking team," Dalic added.
"There are no favourites in this World Cup. It's all 50-50. You have to fight it out. The favourites are home now. Those who work hard and organised are still here in Russia. This is the character of the teams remaining."
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic insisted his team will be ready for their World Cup semi-final showdown with England despite a gruelling encounter against Russia.
Dalic's Croatia advanced to the final four for the first time since 1998 after winning a penalty shootout 4-3 against hosts Russia in Sochi on Saturday.
Neither team could be separated after extra time, which ended 2-2 following an absorbing and exhausting battle at Fisht Stadium.
But two unsuccessful Russia penalties and Ivan Rakitic's match-winning effort silenced the home crowd and led Dalic to tears afterwards."Congrats to my lads but also to Russia who fought well," Dalic – whose Croatia also survived penalties in the last 16 – said during his post-game news conference. "This wasn't a beautiful game but a fight. A battle for the semis. We were lucky, thank God.
"I was concentrated throughout but after Rakitic's penalty, it came bursting out of me. I felt really relieved. We made ourselves happy but also everybody back home in Croatia happy. I don't cry often but now I have good cause. Croatia are in the semis. This is a great result."We have power left for England. We won't want to stop. We will try to play our best. We have two matches to play. We are very motivated. We are giving our all. It will be a battle again but I believe in us."
England moved in to the semis after outclassing Sweden 2-0 earlier in the day thanks to goals from Harry Maguire and Dele Alli."They breezed past Sweden. They were better. They are young and alive. Attacking team," Dalic added.
"There are no favourites in this World Cup. It's all 50-50. You have to fight it out. The favourites are home now. Those who work hard and organised are still here in Russia. This is the character of the teams remaining."
Modric hopes Croatia can surpass legendary '98 World Cup team
Luka Modric believes Croatia can achieve something big and surpass the achievements of the 1998 team after reaching the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday.
Croatia will feature in the final four for the first time in 20 years following their 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory against hosts Russia in Sochi.Ivan Rakitic converted the winning spot-kick after the absorbing quarter-final ended 2-2 following extra time at Fisht Stadium.
Croatia, who finished third in France two decades ago, now stand on the cusp of history as they prepare to face England on Wednesday."This makes us extremely proud and happy that after 20 years, we reached the semis of a World Cup," said Modric, who was voted man of the match.
"We took the difficult route. We were unlucky in past tournaments. Now we're collecting debts this year. Hopefully we can go a step further than 98. We have a great team. Great staff and coach. I hope we can make that extra step."
When asked if he could challenge for the Ballon d'Or based on his and Croatia's performances at the World Cup, he said: "I'm not thinking about it frankly. The most important thing is that the national team succeeds and achieves something big. This team can do more.
"Individual awards aren't important for me. Of course, they are rewards for effort and everyday performances. I'm focusing on the national team. We want to bring a medal home."
Croatia struggled to contain Russia in the first half as Denis Cheryshev scored a stunning opener before Andrej Kramaric responded eight minutes later.Extra time was needed and Zlatko Dalic's side thought they had the match won when Domagoj Vida's header – with some apparent help from Vedran Corluka – found the back of the net.
Russia, however, equalised in the 115th minute thanks to Mario Fernandes, sparking wild celebrations and leaving Croatia deflated until Modric and his team-mates came out on top in the shoot-out. "Russia played a very good game. Particularly the first half. They surprised us. They pressed us very high. We couldn't play. Our style was cramped. Maybe we didn't want to risk some passes. We had to balance it out," the Real Madrid star said.
"In the second half and in extra time, we dominated. We should've finished the job before penalties. Maybe it's written in the stars that we have to go through the extra drama. We faced a very good opponent who did a lot of running."
Luka Modric believes Croatia can achieve something big and surpass the achievements of the 1998 team after reaching the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday.
Croatia will feature in the final four for the first time in 20 years following their 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory against hosts Russia in Sochi.Ivan Rakitic converted the winning spot-kick after the absorbing quarter-final ended 2-2 following extra time at Fisht Stadium.
Croatia, who finished third in France two decades ago, now stand on the cusp of history as they prepare to face England on Wednesday."This makes us extremely proud and happy that after 20 years, we reached the semis of a World Cup," said Modric, who was voted man of the match.
"We took the difficult route. We were unlucky in past tournaments. Now we're collecting debts this year. Hopefully we can go a step further than 98. We have a great team. Great staff and coach. I hope we can make that extra step."
When asked if he could challenge for the Ballon d'Or based on his and Croatia's performances at the World Cup, he said: "I'm not thinking about it frankly. The most important thing is that the national team succeeds and achieves something big. This team can do more.
"Individual awards aren't important for me. Of course, they are rewards for effort and everyday performances. I'm focusing on the national team. We want to bring a medal home."
Croatia struggled to contain Russia in the first half as Denis Cheryshev scored a stunning opener before Andrej Kramaric responded eight minutes later.Extra time was needed and Zlatko Dalic's side thought they had the match won when Domagoj Vida's header – with some apparent help from Vedran Corluka – found the back of the net.
Russia, however, equalised in the 115th minute thanks to Mario Fernandes, sparking wild celebrations and leaving Croatia deflated until Modric and his team-mates came out on top in the shoot-out. "Russia played a very good game. Particularly the first half. They surprised us. They pressed us very high. We couldn't play. Our style was cramped. Maybe we didn't want to risk some passes. We had to balance it out," the Real Madrid star said.
"In the second half and in extra time, we dominated. We should've finished the job before penalties. Maybe it's written in the stars that we have to go through the extra drama. We faced a very good opponent who did a lot of running."
Liverpool & Real Madrid target Fekir is likely to stay at Lyon, says Aulas
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has expressed his belief that Nabil Fekir will line up for the Ligue 1 side next season after seeing a move to Liverpool fall through.
Fekir won himself a place in the France squad for the World Cup after a wonderful season with Lyon. That form was also noticed by the Reds, who made the playmaker one of their top transfer targets in the current window.
A move worth £60 million (€68m/$80m), however, eventually broke down in mysterious circumstances amid reports of a problem with Fekir's medical. And, while Liverpool are far from the only team to show interest, with Real Madrid also reported suitors, Aulas is now determined to keep his star at the club.
"I think that Nabil will be at OL next season," he explained to RMC Sport on Saturday. "I have almost a father-son relationship with my players, I gave him the chance to go to Liverpool because it was his dream club."I did that too with Tolisso and Umtiti, he is our captain and it is the coach's wish to keep him."
Another Lyon player who has caught the eye is Tanguy Ndombele, who at 21 is being looked at by Chelsea as a potential replacement for Paris Saint-Germain target N'Golo Kante."We have not had any offers for him," Aulas said of the young central midfielder. "While other clubs are interested, he will be with us next year in the middle. We must not let our best players leave."
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has expressed his belief that Nabil Fekir will line up for the Ligue 1 side next season after seeing a move to Liverpool fall through.
Fekir won himself a place in the France squad for the World Cup after a wonderful season with Lyon. That form was also noticed by the Reds, who made the playmaker one of their top transfer targets in the current window.
A move worth £60 million (€68m/$80m), however, eventually broke down in mysterious circumstances amid reports of a problem with Fekir's medical. And, while Liverpool are far from the only team to show interest, with Real Madrid also reported suitors, Aulas is now determined to keep his star at the club.
"I think that Nabil will be at OL next season," he explained to RMC Sport on Saturday. "I have almost a father-son relationship with my players, I gave him the chance to go to Liverpool because it was his dream club."I did that too with Tolisso and Umtiti, he is our captain and it is the coach's wish to keep him."
Another Lyon player who has caught the eye is Tanguy Ndombele, who at 21 is being looked at by Chelsea as a potential replacement for Paris Saint-Germain target N'Golo Kante."We have not had any offers for him," Aulas said of the young central midfielder. "While other clubs are interested, he will be with us next year in the middle. We must not let our best players leave."
Southgate: Jones, Cahill and Welbeck key to England success at World Cup
Gareth Southgate believes England's success at the World Cup is down to the effort of his whole squad, singling out for praise back-up players Phil Jones, Gary Cahill and Danny WelbeckNone of the trio were required as England comfortably beat Sweden 2-0 in Samara on Saturday to move into the semi-finals of the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
Harry Maguire and Dele Alli headers either side of the interval booked England a last-four clash against either hosts Russia or Croatia in Moscow on Wednesday.
But Southgate was quick to highlight the off-the-field contribution of senior players Welbeck, Cahill and Jones despite their lack of minutes at the World Cup so far.
"I can't speak highly enough of the whole squad and staff as they are so united, great level of commitment," Southgate said to BBC Sport. "Some of the guys haven't had a lot of time on the pitch but guys like Jones, Cahill and Welbeck, their mentality at training is as big a reason behind getting to the semi-final as anyone else."
Of England's potential semi-final opponents, Southgate added: "Russia in Moscow would be incredible to be involved in but let's see. We enjoy tonight, we hope everyone at home enjoys tonight as it's not very often this happens.
"All I know is that the [England] managers who got to semi-finals before I hugely respect and it's an incredible feeling to be involved in this."
England cruised past Sweden after needing penalties to get past Colombia in the last round."We knew it'd be a different game to the other night, to come back after extra-time and penalties, the emotion and energy, it was a different test," Southgate said.
"It's a scrappier game against Sweden, they don't let you play, we had to withstand physical pressure but resilience was crucial to see it through. We knew we'd have the majority of the ball, it was about breaking them down but we got the goals. We're getting into good areas of the pitch."They're well-organised and tough to break down but our spirit was as good as them and our quality was a little better."
Gareth Southgate believes England's success at the World Cup is down to the effort of his whole squad, singling out for praise back-up players Phil Jones, Gary Cahill and Danny WelbeckNone of the trio were required as England comfortably beat Sweden 2-0 in Samara on Saturday to move into the semi-finals of the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
Harry Maguire and Dele Alli headers either side of the interval booked England a last-four clash against either hosts Russia or Croatia in Moscow on Wednesday.
But Southgate was quick to highlight the off-the-field contribution of senior players Welbeck, Cahill and Jones despite their lack of minutes at the World Cup so far.
"I can't speak highly enough of the whole squad and staff as they are so united, great level of commitment," Southgate said to BBC Sport. "Some of the guys haven't had a lot of time on the pitch but guys like Jones, Cahill and Welbeck, their mentality at training is as big a reason behind getting to the semi-final as anyone else."
Of England's potential semi-final opponents, Southgate added: "Russia in Moscow would be incredible to be involved in but let's see. We enjoy tonight, we hope everyone at home enjoys tonight as it's not very often this happens.
"All I know is that the [England] managers who got to semi-finals before I hugely respect and it's an incredible feeling to be involved in this."
England cruised past Sweden after needing penalties to get past Colombia in the last round."We knew it'd be a different game to the other night, to come back after extra-time and penalties, the emotion and energy, it was a different test," Southgate said.
"It's a scrappier game against Sweden, they don't let you play, we had to withstand physical pressure but resilience was crucial to see it through. We knew we'd have the majority of the ball, it was about breaking them down but we got the goals. We're getting into good areas of the pitch."They're well-organised and tough to break down but our spirit was as good as them and our quality was a little better."
Maguire: It's coming home for England...hopefully
England are into the World Cup semi-finals, with Harry Maguire admitting that football is coming home for the Three Lions …“hopefully”.Gareth Southgate’s side have made the most of landing on the favourable side of the knockout stage draw in Russia to make their way through to the last four .
Confidence is building within the squad, while patriotism is soaring back home as fans dare to believe that a long wait for senior international honours could be about to come to an end.
Maguire helped to keep those fires burning by opening the scoring in a quarter-final clash with Sweden, with his towering header getting England off to the perfect start in a 2-0 win .The Leicester defender told BBC Sport afterwards: "You can't get better than that and we're through - that's the main thing.
"We felt we could dominate the ball today. We knew set-plays would be a big thing." Asked if football really is coming home this summer, the 25-year-old said: "Hopefully! Fingers crossed."Dele Alli got England’s second goal against Sweden, to help calm any nerves and make life a little more comfortable.
Harry Kane drew a rare blank, but a man who continues to top the Golden Boot charts worked tirelessly for the good of the collective cause.
The Tottenham striker will now get the opportunity to captain the Three Lions in a World Cup semi-final – a feat only Terry Butcher and Bobby Moore have managed in the past.Kane said of the performance which carried England to that point: "I thought we were fantastic. We faced the long ball - different to what we have faced before and we're buzzing with the result.
"We know there is a big game ahead with the semi-final but we are feeling good and we're confident."We just have to go again. We are enjoying it and we've got keep doing what we are doing and make the country proud."England will face either Russia or Croatia in the last four at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Wednesday.
England are into the World Cup semi-finals, with Harry Maguire admitting that football is coming home for the Three Lions …“hopefully”.Gareth Southgate’s side have made the most of landing on the favourable side of the knockout stage draw in Russia to make their way through to the last four .
Confidence is building within the squad, while patriotism is soaring back home as fans dare to believe that a long wait for senior international honours could be about to come to an end.
Maguire helped to keep those fires burning by opening the scoring in a quarter-final clash with Sweden, with his towering header getting England off to the perfect start in a 2-0 win .The Leicester defender told BBC Sport afterwards: "You can't get better than that and we're through - that's the main thing.
"We felt we could dominate the ball today. We knew set-plays would be a big thing." Asked if football really is coming home this summer, the 25-year-old said: "Hopefully! Fingers crossed."Dele Alli got England’s second goal against Sweden, to help calm any nerves and make life a little more comfortable.
Harry Kane drew a rare blank, but a man who continues to top the Golden Boot charts worked tirelessly for the good of the collective cause.
The Tottenham striker will now get the opportunity to captain the Three Lions in a World Cup semi-final – a feat only Terry Butcher and Bobby Moore have managed in the past.Kane said of the performance which carried England to that point: "I thought we were fantastic. We faced the long ball - different to what we have faced before and we're buzzing with the result.
"We know there is a big game ahead with the semi-final but we are feeling good and we're confident."We just have to go again. We are enjoying it and we've got keep doing what we are doing and make the country proud."England will face either Russia or Croatia in the last four at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Wednesday.
