Croatia narrowly defeated by Portugal in Lisbon

Unfortunately, the Portuguese made the most of their opportunities. The first big chance came as early as the sixth minute when Bruno Fernandes played a clever through ball to Diogo Dalot, who managed to slot it between Livaković's legs for a 1-0 lead.

Earlier, Dominik Livaković had shown he was in great form by saving a shot from Bruno Fernandes a minute before, and then making a brilliant reflex save from a tight angle against Cristiano Ronaldo in the 22nd minute.

Croatia's first threat came in the 14th minute when Luka Modrić's long-range shot hit the side netting. Croatia came even closer to scoring in the 31st minute when a great intervention by Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa denied a certain goal after an effort by Kramarić. In the 34th minute, however, even Livaković could do nothing. Cristiano Ronaldo met a cross from the left and found the net from close range as he did in his prime — 2-0.

In the 41st minute, Croatia reduced Portugal's lead. Kramarić played the ball to the center, Sosa shot at the far post, and a Portuguese defender inadvertently beat Diogo Costa with his heel — 2-1. Towards the end of the first half, Vitinha broke away on a counterattack and hit the crossbar.

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