Despite being clear favorites, Zlatko Dalic's side had way more troubles to past Russia in the Last 8 rather they wanted. In the first half both teams shared dominance in arrhythmic game where Croatia looked bit more competent but it was Russia to score an opener as Denis Cheryshev bagged a glorious belter on 39th minute – one of the best goals of the tournament. 8 minutes later Andrej Kramaric has leveled the score with a close-range header. After the break Croats grabbed the possession of the game and unleashed their attacking fury upon hosts but failed to break the deadlock. In the extras both sides scored from free kicks to make it 2:2. In the penalty-shootout stage Croatian side looked way better organized and explored opponent’s flops to celebrate the 4:3 win on penalties.
- In the Last 4 Croatia will face England on July 11th
- The winner of this pair will play against France or Belgium in the final clash on July 15th