Mattia Zaccagni’s Late Equalizer Sends Italy to Last 16

Mattia Zaccagni scored in the final minute of stoppage time, securing a dramatic equalizer for Italy and breaking Croatian hearts as the defending champions advanced to the last 16 of Euro 2024. Luka Modric’s powerful second-half shot seemingly secured second place in Group B for Croatia. This came after his penalty was saved but his swift rebound seemed enough for Croatia.

However, Italy leveled the score in stoppage time when Mattia Zaccagni curled a shot home in the 98th minute, ensuring Italy progressed alongside group winners Spain. This devastating late goal left Croatia’s chances of advancing slim, as two points are unlikely to suffice for a best third-placed team spot. Italy will face Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday, June 29.

At the final whistle, Croatian players collapsed to the ground, while their fans stood motionless in disbelief. The 2018 World Cup finalists had struggled in their first two tournament games, losing to Spain and drawing with Albania. Entering as underdogs, Croatia started strong but struggled in the final third, ultimately dooming their efforts against Italy.

Modric, the 38-year-old captain, recovered from a saved penalty to drive a shot into the net, sending Croatian fans into a frenzy. From that point, Croatia managed the game well but Zaccagni’s late strike dashed their hopes. Croatia’s aging stars, including Modric, now face an uncertain future as they come to terms with their exit. For Italy, this equalizer could spark a turnaround.

The Euro 2020 champions had a shaky start, coming from behind against Albania and losing to Spain. Coach Luciano Spalletti made changes for this game, but Italy again struggled. Despite several chances, they only threatened Croatia after Modric’s goal. Nevertheless, Italy’s persistence paid off with Zaccagni’s late equalizer, securing their spot in the knockout stage.

Italian fans celebrated long after the final whistle, hoping this moment ignites their team’s performance in Euro 2024.