Bruno Petkovic thought he gave Croatia a late glimmer of hope in his country's Euro 2024 opener against Spain today – but… The striker's goal in the 80th minute, which would have reduced the difference to 3-1, was disallowed.
What happened?
After being fouled in the penalty area by Spain midfielder Rodri, Petkovic gathered himself to take the penalty, but saw the penalty saved by goalkeeper Unai Simon. Croatian Ivan Perisic was the first to grab the rebound He returned it to the middle and Petkovic put the ball into the net from close range.
But the replay showed that Perisic was one of a number of Croatia players who gained an unfair advantage over Spain's defenders by encroaching into the penalty area. Before Petkovic executed the failed penalty kick.
After a short examination by Video Assistant Referee Stuart Attwell, Match referee Michael Oliver disallowed the goal.
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Clemence BellanEvie
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Spain is heading towards victory
Before Petkovic's disallowed goal in the first half Goals from Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Carvajal gave Spain a 3-0 advantage In the Olympic Stadium.
Thus the clash ended Leaving the Spaniards as the first leaders of the second group. The Spanish national team, which defeated Croatia for the European Nations League title 12 months ago, is seeking to achieve its fourth European Championship title in this summer’s tournament in Germany.
In the other match of the second group in the first round, Defending heroes Italy faces Albania At Dortmund today at 3pm ET/12pm PT.
Who do Spain and Croatia face next?
Spain now moves to face Italy in Gelsenkirchen, while Croatia will play the next match against Albania in Hamburg. The two matches will be held on Wednesday, June 19.
