3.Luka Modric: The new LM10?
In a bruising first half, only one player appeared to have any time on the ball, Luka Modric. In the second he continued to pull the strings and his splendid goal secured a victory. It was predicted that a La Liga player would dominate the match, it is just that no one mentioned Real Madrid’s Luka Modric. Many in Croatia have been uneasy with the Real Madrid star wearing the captain’s armband, regardless of the fact that he is their outstanding player. But football is a famously fickle business and his spectacular goal coupled with such a passionate celebration afterwards, grabbing at his Croatian shirt, may have placated some of his critics.
It was a dogged defensive second-half display from Croatia, illuminated by a moment of magic from their own masterful number 10, Luka Modric.