World Cup: Croatia into semis first time since 1998

By Satuk Bugra Kutlugun

ANKARA

Croatia have advanced to World Cup semifinal after beating Russia 4-3 on penalties at Fisht Stadium on Saturday evening.

The regular time ended 1-1, and two teams traded a goal each in the either half of extra time to extend the match to a penalty shootout.

Croatia managed to oust the hosts Russia 4-3 in the penalty shootout to advance to the World Cup semifinal for the first time since 1998.

Russia took the lead in the 31st minute after Denis Cheryshev's banging strike from outside the penalty area.

However, Croatia bounced back quickly with a header from Kramaric in the 39th minute.

In the extra time, Domagoj Vida's header gave Croatia the lead in the 101st minute, but Russia did not give up to equalize the match at the 115th minute, answering with their own header by Mario Fernandes.

Croatia will face England in the semifinals.