Spain survive Croatia's fight-back to reach Euro 2020 quarterfinals with 5-3 extra-time win

Source: Xinhua| 2021-06-29 03:00:36|Editor: huaxia

COPENHAGEN, June 28 (Xinhua) -- Luis Enrique's Spanish side held nerve after Croatia scored two goals to level the match 3-3 in the last 10 minutes of the regular time, hitting another two in the extra time to claim the victory and reach the European Championships quarterfinals on Monday.

Alvaro Morata slotted home in the 100th minute to put Spain ahead again before Mikel Oyarzabal sealed the match 5-3 three minutes later.

The 2018 World Cup runners-up fought back from 3-1 down in the 85th minute as goals from Mislav Orsic and Mario Pasalic temporarily saved the team and pulled the match into the extra time.

Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon committed a bizarre mistake early in the first half as he didn't look at the ball when Pedri passed back from 40 yards out, only to see the ball find its way into the net to give Croatia the lead.

It was the ninth own goal in this year's Euro, which has equaled the tally of all the previous editions.

Pablo Sarabia leveled the score for the Spaniards in the 38th minute, while Cesar Azpilicueta and Ferran Torres were on target in the second half to make it a 3-1 lead for Spain.

Spain will next face the winners between France and Switzerland. Enditem

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