Italy’s substitute Mattia Zaccagni scored in the final minute of extra time, helping Italy advance to the knockout stage of the European Championship after drawing 1-1 against Croatia on Monday.
Luka Modric’s goal in the second half seemed enough to send Croatia through as the Group B runner-up. However, Zaccagni’s impressive shot into the far post in the eighth minute of added time turned the tables in a thrilling finish by the defending champions.
Croatia’s coach Zlatko Dalic expressed frustration over the extended added time after his team’s resilient performance.
“You can’t add eight minutes after that match, it doesn’t make sense,” Dalic said. “There weren’t many stoppages or fouls to justify it. I don’t want to create controversy, but I believe Croatia deserves recognition and respect. We played nearly three hours.”
Italy only needed a draw to advance, while Croatia realistically needed a win to stay in the tournament. With two points from three games, Croatia now waits for other results to determine if they can qualify as one of the best third-place teams.
Dalic showed no optimism about advancing. He believes his team is already out.
Italy will play against Switzerland in the round of 16 on Saturday at Berlin’s Olympiastadion, where the final will be held on July 14.
“At times, we were not at our best and played a bit cautiously,” Italy coach Luciano Spalletti remarked. “When you know a draw is enough, sometimes you play more conservatively.”
Spalletti rejected concerns about trailing late in the game. “Worries are part of this job,” he said. “We did what we had to do.”
