Brazil did not have the same quick start that defeated South Korea earlier this week, with Croatia appearing to be the more dangerous team for significant stretches of the first half.
Vinicius Junior’s low shot, which was Brazil’s best effort prior to the break, was stopped by Josko Gvardiol, while Croatia’s right side saw brief threats from Josip Juranovic, Mario Pasalic, and Luka Modric.
Brazil had an early penalty appeal rejected and repeatedly put Livakovic to the test, but the goalkeeper was up to the task despite Neymar and Lucas Paqueta’s best efforts.
In extra time, he was unable to stop Neymar once more. Neymar and Paquetá exchanged one-twos in an amazing one-touch manoeuvre, and Neymar was able to stay on his feet and move past Borna Sosa and around Livakovic before shooting from close range. He now has the same number of goals as Pelé, who set a record for the Brazilian men’s national team with 77.
The drama there, however, wasn’t that. Mislav Orsic was released down the left side in a skillful move, and Bruno Petkovic met his cutback with a shot that beat Alisson with a deflection to send the match to penalties.
After Livakovic stopped Rodrygo from scoring down the middle, Croatia took the lead with goals from Vlasic and Majer. Prior to a Marquinhos shot hitting the post, Casemiro, Modric, Pedro, and Orsic all scored for Croatia, sending them through.
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