Croatia beat Finland 1-0 and is heading the Group I of the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers
Following the away win over Kosovo on Thursday, Croatia took the three points on October 9. 2016, away at Finland as well.
Croatian attempts to break through strong Finnish defense paid off in the 18th minute when Vrsaljko crossed from the right; Kramarić took a shot, and Mandžukić headed the ball into the goal from close range.
However, the hosts did not change their gameplan, playing in a tight defensive formation, and the dull first half ended with no significant chances on both sides, leaving Croatia with a one-goal lead.
The second half did not open more space for Croatian attacks, while Finland managed to create a couple of scuffles in front of Subašić, mostly from set-pieces, but lacking the finishing touch.
In the final 15 minutes, Croatia did threaten the Finnish goalie, when Perišić hit the post from the edge of the box. Hradecky then stopped two Čop’s and one Mandžukić’s effort.
Ante Čačić’s men finally managed to hold on and await November, and the home clash with Iceland in Zagreb. Two teams are leveled at seven points at the top of the group table.
In the other two matches of the Group I; Ukraine defeated Kosovo 3-0, and Iceland overpowered Turkey 2-0.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmAcZeTyWpg
