Efficient Croatia cruises at Kosovo, scores six

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Croatia has started its qualifying campaign with a Zagreb draw against Turkey (1:1), while the first victory was recorded on Thursday, away at Kosovo, despite Modrić, Rakitić, Lovren, and Pjaca missing out due to injuries.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

The Vatreni took the lead after just six minutes, when Kramarić found Mandžukić, and Juventus striker did not make a mistake beating Ujkani. In 24th minute, Mandžukić doubled this lead scoring with his shoulder following Perišić's cross from the left.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Ten minutes before the break, Mandžukić completed his hat-trick with a header, Vrsaljko this time assisting from the right. Mandžukić had two more great opportunities in the first half, while Subašić made two excellent saves from Celina and Zemeli.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Croatia's fourth goal was scored by young defender Mitrović, a half-time substitute for Ćorluka, at Brozović's assist and a good reaction at the far post.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Perišić made it 5:0 with a cool finish following Brozović through ball in 83rd minute, while Nikola Kalinić wrapped things up in the final seconds of the match, scoring at Kovačić's assist with a low show from the edge of the box.

Ante Čačić's men leave for Tampere on Friday, where they will face hosts Finland on Sunday. 

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Finland lost to Iceland 3:2, throwing away 2:1 lead, while Turkey came back from two goals down to draw with Ukraine 2:2.

Group I:
1. Croatia 4
2. Iceland 4
3. Turkey 2
4. Ukraine 2
5. Finland 1
6. Kosovo 1

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

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