UEFA Euro 2020.

After securing direct qualification for the tournament, Croatia, led by Zlatko Dalić, found itself in a group with England, the Czech Republic, and Scotland. The Vatreni opened their campaign in London against the hosts and suffered a narrow defeat following Sterling’s goal in the 57th minute.

Next came the match against the Czechs, who took the lead in the 57th minute through Schick’s penalty, but Croatia refused to give in and equalised early in the second half through Ivan Perišić (47’). The score did not change again, making it clear that Croatia would need a victory against Scotland to progress to the knockout stage.

Another match against a host nation ended in triumph this time. After Vlašić’s opener (17’) and McGregor’s equaliser for Scotland (42’), the turning point came from a brilliant piece of skill by Croatia’s virtuoso and captain, Luka Modrić — another unforgettable touch with his famous outside-of-the-boot right foot. A goal to be remembered for years. Ivan Perišić sealed the win, removing all doubt at Hampden Park.

The round of 16 brought yet another clash with Spain and an incredible drama in the final moments of regular time. Croatia took the lead thanks to Pedri’s comical own goal following an awkward reaction by goalkeeper Unai Simón, after which Spain mounted a furious comeback through goals by Sarabia (38’), Azpilicueta (57’), and Ferran Torres (77’). And then… just when it seemed there was no way back, came the final act of Croatia’s revival.

In the key moments, Dalić’s “jokers” off the bench — Oršić (85’) and Pašalić (90’+2) — crowned Croatia’s whirlwind finish and forced extra time. And who knows what might have happened had Kramarić converted his golden chance at the very start of extra time to give Croatia the lead… Instead, Morata (100’) and Oyarzabal (103’) shattered the dream of reaching the quarter-finals.