CROATIA HELD TO A DRAMATIC DRAW BY ALBANIA IN EURO 2024 QUALIFIER
Albania Scores Late Equalizer to Deny Croatia Victory
A dramatic stoppage-time equalizer from Albania's Sokol Cikalleshi denied Croatia a crucial victory in their Euro 2024 qualifying match on Wednesday.
The match, played at the Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb, Croatia, saw the home side dominate possession and create more chances but fail to capitalize on their opportunities. Albania, meanwhile, defended resolutely and looked dangerous on the counterattack. The match seemed destined to end in a Croatian victory when Andrej Kramarić gave the hosts the lead in the 70th minute, but Cikalleshi had the final say, scoring in the 94th minute to earn Albania a share of the spoils.
The result leaves Croatia in second place in Group E, two points behind leaders Hungary. Albania, meanwhile, are in fourth place with two points from three matches. The two teams will meet again in the return fixture in Tirana, Albania, on September 9.
For Croatia, the draw is a major setback in their quest to qualify for Euro 2024. The team has now drawn two of their three matches and will need to improve their results if they want to secure a place at the tournament. Albania, on the other hand, will be delighted with the point, which keeps their hopes of qualifying alive.
The match was also notable for the performance of Albanian goalkeeper Etrit Berisha, who made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Berisha was named Man of the Match for his efforts.
In the other Group E match, Hungary defeated Slovenia 2-1 to maintain their lead at the top of the group. Hungary are now three points clear of Croatia and will be confident of qualifying for Euro 2024 if they can continue their good form.
Komentar