CROATIA were the dark horses going into this summer’s World Cup.
Luka Modric and Co have lived up to that billing – and now take on England in Wednesday’s crunch semi-final.
What are the past results between England and Croatia?
THE Three Lions have met Croatia in five competitive games since the turn of the century.
Of these, England have won three and lost two.
It’s almost a decade since the last clash, which came in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.
England thrashed the Croatians 5-1 thanks to braces from Frank Lampard and Steve Gerarrd, and one from Wayne Rooney.
And in the meeting before that, England had put four past the Croatians on their own patch.
But Steve McClaren won’t want to be reminded of his famous ‘wally with the brolly’ when England failed to reach Euro 2008 after a 3-2 defeat at Wembley.
History seems to count for little in this tournament – and especially with this new look Croatia.
They have looked lethal so far in the competition and have a perfect blend of experience and youthful flair.
Past meetings
- April 24, 1996 – DRAW 0-0 (friendly)
- August 20, 2003 – WON 3-1 (friendly)
- June 21, 2004 – WON 4-2 (Euro 2004)
- October 11, 2006 – LOST 0-2 (Euro 2008 qualifying)
- November 21, 2007 – LOST 2-3 (Euro 2008 qualifying)
- September 10, 2008 – WON 4-1 (World Cup 2010 qualifying)
- September 9, 2009 – WON 5-1 (World Cup 2010 qualifying)
When are the World Cup semi-finals?
THE last-four will compete for a place in the final in Moscow on July 15.
France vs Belgium will play on Tuesday, July 10 at 7pm.
England vs Croatia will then be held on Wednesday, July 11, also at 7pm.
