Strinic’s Croatia thrash Argentina and progress from Group D

Croatia put on a stellar performance on Thursday evening against Argentina and secured qualification for the last 16 of Russia 2018. Sampdoria’s Ivan Strinic was on the left of the defence tasked with handling a powerful Argentina attack, featuring the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero.

The Croatian defence stood firm and emerged 3-0 winners in the match at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium.

After a goal-less first half, Ante Rebic opened the scoring on 53 minutes, pouncing on a goalkeeping error from Willy Caballero to smash home a volley. Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic added the second and third goals as the game drew to a close.

Croatia will face Iceland on 26 June, when they can ensure top spot in Group D. For the Argentinians, their aim will be to avoid what would be a painful elimination.