In an exciting encounter between Croatia and Albania at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Albania snatched a crucial late draw against the Croats on Wednesday, June 19th.
Klaus Gjasula’s stoppage-time strike rescued a point for the underdogs Albania and maintained their chances of reaching the Euro 2024 knockout stages.
It was Albania who struck first, taking a surprise lead in the 10th minute through Qazim Laci’s glancing header. The early goal stunned the 2018 World Cup finalists, who struggled to break down Albania’s compact defensive shape in the first half.
Kristjan Asllani and Rey Manaj both went close to doubling Albania’s advantage, only to be denied by the in-form Dominik Livakovic in the Croatian goal. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of Albania.
Zlatko Dalic’s half-time team talk had the desired effect, as Croatia emerged from the break with renewed vigour. The pressure eventually caught up with the Albanians, and Andrej Kramaric equalised for Croatia in the 74th minute.
Croatia then went in front just two minutes later, courtesy of an own goal by Albania’s Klaus Gjasula.
Just when all seemed lost for Albania, Gjasula dramatically redeemed himself, firing home a left-footed strike in the 95th minute to snatch a crucial point for Sylvinho’s side.
The late equaliser sparked wild celebrations among the Albanian players and fans, keeping their Euro 2024 dreams alive as they head into their final group stage match against Spain.
The result leaves both Croatia and Albania on a single point in Group B, with the final fixtures against Italy and Spain respectively set to be a thrilling showdown as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
