Disappointing start for Croatia and Modric against Spain

Disappointing start for Croatia and Modric against Spain

Croatia started off their Euros 2024 campaign against Spain in the supposed “Group of Death” and fell short massively. Spain led by Morata were impressive and more importantly clinical in the first half, putting the game to bed inside the first 45 minutes scoring three goals.

Alvaro Morata opened the scoring in the 29th minute before Fabian Ruiz doubled it inside three minutes after shimming his way at the edge of the box. Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal combined of La Roja’s third in the injury time in the first half, becoming the oldest goalscorer for Spain at the Euros in the process.

Croatia had opportunities in the first half but couldn’t capitalize on any of them. In the second half, they were denied a goal from the spot thanks to a brilliant save from Unai Simon. They finished the game with more of the ball than Spain, ending a stupendous run of 136 competitive games where they had more possession than their opponent dating to 2008 Euros final. However, they had nothing to show for this possession.

Their most experienced player and captain, Luka Modric, wasn’t able to work his magic and impose himself in the middle of the park. It was a rather uncharacteristic performance from the 38-year-old.

Luka Modric’s performance vs Spain at Euros 2024

He finished the game with 41 passes with an 87.8% completion rate and had some bright moments when pressed. However, some of his passing was sloppy due to a lack of passing option. He made five recoveries in the game and was taken off in the 65th minute. The synergy and rhythm between the midfielders was missing for Croatia and didn’t help their cause.