Nikola Kalinić breaks down Ukraine resistance in Zagreb

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Following the draw against Turkey (1:1) and three straight victories over Kosovo, Finland, and Iceland, Croatia continued the winning streak playing without injured defenders Ćorluka and Vrsaljko, and suspended Perišić.

Ukraine winger Yarmolenko opened an interesting encounter with a missed opportunity, and the Vatreni replied through N. Kalinić, and only minutes later, Mandžukić took on Pyatov one-on-one, but hit the post.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

N. Kalinić and Yarmolenko had further chances to score, with Croatia goalie Subašić producing a great save, and Jedvaj was called upon to clear one ball off the line. Rakitić then tried from a rebound, and shot wide.

However, Croatia managed to take a one-goal advantage to half-time break: on 38 minutes, Modrić started the move, Rakitić backheeled to N. Kalinić, who shook off Ukraine defender and found the net with a powerful strike to make it 1:0.

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

Second half offered less in terms of creating chances, yet both teams did not lack fighting spirit. On 78 minutes, Konoplyanka tested Subašić with a long-distance effort, while Croatia captain Modrić did the same to Pyatov ten minutes later. Both goalkeepers responded perfectly.

N. Kalinić goal thus proved decisive, and Croatia's mission was accomplished. Ante Čačić's men remain at the top of the group, three points ahead of Iceland. Ukraine slipped to third with the first defeat of this campaign.

In the remaining Group I matches on Friday, Turkey defeated Finland at home 2:0, while Iceland was victorious at Kosovo 2:1. In June, Croatia visits Iceland, Kosovo take on Turkey, and Finland hosts Ukraine.

2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying, Group I:
1. Croatia 13
2. Iceland 10
3. Ukraine 8
4. Turkey 8
5. Finland 1
6. Kosovo 1

Foto: Drago Sopta/HNS

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