Croatia 0-0 Spain: Spain Win 5-4 on Penalties
Spain Secure a Place in the Semifinals
Croatia Bows Out After a Hard-Fought Match
In a thrilling and dramatic match, Spain emerged victorious over Croatia in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation time. The match, held at the Krestovsky Stadium in Saint Petersburg, saw both teams create chances but fail to find the back of the net.
Spain controlled much of the possession, but Croatia had the better chances in the first half. Andrej Kramaric forced a save from David de Gea with a powerful shot, while Ivan Perisic missed a glorious opportunity from close range.
The second half saw Spain create more chances, but they could not break down the resolute Croatian defense. Alvaro Morata had a golden chance to win it late on, but his header went just wide.
The match went to a penalty shootout, and it was Spain who held their nerve. Sergio Ramos, Dani Olmo, Thiago Alcantara, and Gerard Moreno all converted their spot-kicks, while Croatia's Marko Livaja, Nikola Vlasic, Marcelo Brozovic, and Ante Rebic all scored.
Spain will now face Italy in the semifinals, while Croatia bows out of the tournament with their heads held high.
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