Watch Croatia vs Albania full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 13:00 (GMT) on 19th June 2024
The referee for this match is F. Letexier
Game played at Volksparkstadion
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group B, Season 2024
Albania Salvage Late Draw Against Croatia in Thrilling Euro 2024 Group B Encounter
Albania came from behind to salvage a potentially pivotal draw against Croatia in their first-ever meeting, leaving both sides on one point with UEFA Euro 2024 progression hanging in the balance ahead of Group B’s final round of fixtures.
Fast Start and Albania’s Early Lead
After stunning Italy with the quickest goal ever scored at a UEFA European Championship, Albania followed up with another fast start in their second group game. With just 11 minutes on the clock, Sylvinho’s side took a surprise lead. Qazim Laçi darted into the box to meet Jasir Asani’s cross, heading in at Dominik Livaković’s near post.
Croatia’s Response and Albania’s Positivity
Desperately needing a response, the 2018 FIFA World Cup finalists pushed for an equaliser, with Bruno Petković heading over the bar shortly after Albania’s opener. Rather than sit back and defend their slender advantage, Albania maintained their early positivity. They nearly doubled their lead when captain Luka Modrić surrendered possession, leading to a swift breakaway, but Kristjan Asllani was denied in a one-on-one situation. Albania’s counter-attacking threat persisted throughout the first half, with Croatia struggling to create clear-cut chances.
Croatia’s Second Half Comeback
A pair of halftime substitutions by Croatian coach Zlatko Dalić injected new energy into his side. Despite their renewed efforts, the scoreline remained unchanged as the hour mark passed. However, Croatia’s persistence eventually paid off. Andrej Kramarić, celebrating his birthday, received the ball in the area and fired low past Thomas Strakosha to level the game. This goal invigorated Croatia, and they nearly took the lead moments later when substitute Mario Pašalić was denied.
Late Drama and Albania’s Equalizer
Croatia appeared to have turned the contest around when substitute Ante Budimir cut the ball back across goal, leading to Klaus Gjasula inadvertently bundling it over his own line. However, Albania regained their composure and chased a late equaliser. Mirlind Daku missed two presentable opportunities, but Gjasula redeemed himself with a stoppage-time goal, sending Albania’s fans into raptures and securing a crucial point.
Looking Ahead
The incredible finale sets up a tense final round of fixtures in Group B. Albania will face Spain, hoping to build on their resilient performances, while Croatia will need a positive result against defending champions Italy to ensure their progression from the group. Despite avoiding consecutive defeats at a major tournament for the first time since Euro ’96, Croatia’s path to the knockout stages remains precarious.