Croatia secured their spot in the Nations League quarter-finals with a crucial 1-1 draw against already-qualified Portugal. With Portugal having already clinched the top spot in Group A1, manager Roberto Martínez opted to rest key players including Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite fielding a rotated lineup, Portugal struck first in the 33rd minute. Chelsea forward João Félix capitalized on a precise pass from Vitinha and fired a clinical shot into the net.
Croatia needing at least a draw to advance, responded with determination. Andrej Kramarić came close to leveling the score when his effort hit the woodwork. The breakthrough for Croatia came in the 65th minute when Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol converted a Kristijan Jakić cross at the back post, sending the home fans into celebration.
Portugal’s goalkeeper, José Sá denied Kramarić a potential winner as Croatia continued to press but the 1-1 draw proved sufficient for Croatia to advance. Elsewhere in Group A1, Scotland edged out Poland 2-1 with Andy Robertson’s dramatic stoppage-time header securing third place in the group. Although Scotland’s victory didn’t affect Croatia’s progression, it added to a dramatic conclusion to the group stage.
The result ensures Croatia’s place in the last eight where they will aim to build on their strong performances. For Portugal, the draw marked a steady end to the group stage as they prepare for the next phase with key players rested.
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