Brilliant Modrić strike rewards excellent Croatia

Croatia national football team did an excellent job in the first EURO 2016 encounter, winning over Turkey 1:0 and wasting even more opportunities in the process.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

The Vatreni tried to score at the very beginning through Srna - Rakitić - Perišić move, with subsequent efforts from Brozović and Badelj. However, Turkey replied in 29th minute, when Subašić held Tufan header on the line.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Luka Modrić then took care to avoid a goalless break. He struck a first-time rebound from 25 meters and brilliantly found net, to the immense joy of Croatian fans at the stadium and throughout the homeland.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

In the second half, Ante Čačić's men refused to stop.

Srna rattled the crossbar from the free-kick and missed a golden opportunity afterwards, then Brozović nearly found the target, while Perišić later hit the crossbar once again. Ten minutes from time, Babacan managed to keep Brozović header out.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

In the closing minutes, Croatia stood firm with injured Ćorluka and due to maximum effort maintained a cool head and its lead. With three points, Croatia awaits the Czech Republic encounter in Saint Etienne on 17 June.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

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