Draw with Russia sends Croatia home

Foto: Mario Ćužić

Following the loss against Kazakhstan on Friday, Croatia was seeking a two-goal margin victory against European vice-champions Russia to go through to the second round.

Croatia crowned quality opening minutes with a goal in the ninth minute, when Matošević's effort from the left was deflected by Robinho into his own net.

Foto: Mario Ćužić

However, Russia found the equalizer following Robinho's corner in the 12th minute. Jukić could not stop Abramov's excellent volley, and the teams went to half-time break with 1:1 score, and five fouls each.

Five minutes into the second half, Jelovčić found Novak with a beautiful back-heel move, and Novak beat Gustavo in one-on-one situation to get Croatia back in front.

Foto: Mario Ćužić

A third goal for Croatia would then be enough, but Russia finally exploited Croatian risk-taking in the closing minutes through Pereverzev strike for 2:2.

Novak then failed to convert a penalty and Russia could start celebrating topping the Group C.

UEFA Futsal EURO, Group C:
1. Russia 4
2. Kazakhstan 3
3. Croatia 1

Foto: Mario Ćužić

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