KUWAIT, June 26 (KUNA) -- Croatia Tuesday denied Iceland a chance to advance to round of 16 when it beat it 2-1 to lead Group D and would be facing Denmark in knock-out stages.
Iceland entered the game eager for a win as it would boost it chances to qualify to the next round, but Croatia had the lion's share of ball possession in the first half.
Croatia's talisman Luka Modric has been instrumental in the midfield and is the driving force behind his team.
However, Iceland did not quit and kept pressing the ball and had many attacks on Croatia but the goalkeeper was there to save every attempt.
The first half ended scoreless.
Croatia's Milan Badelj finally found a spot and gave his country's the lead in the 53rd minute.
Iceland are stubborn and their pressure bore fruit.
They were awarded a penalty in the 76th minute and Gylfi Sigurdsson converted it to level the score.
Iceland was on the offensive, trying to score another.
But Ivano perisic's dagger in the 90th minute silenced all hopes.
Croatia is leading Group D with perfect nine points and is set to meet Denmark next Sunday. (end) bs