FIFA World Cup 2018: Croatia Enter First World Cup Final After Foiling England
Croatia began preparations for the first World Cup final in their history on Thursday after they came from behind to crush England's hopes in an enthralling contest.
England roared into the lead in just the fifth minute through Kieran Trippier's superb free-kick. (All Images Courtesy: AFP)
England were on course to reach their first final since they lifted the trophy on home soil back in 1966.
Zlatko Dalic's side did gradually grow into the contest.
Croatia came roaring back in the second half and equalised through Ivan Perisic.
Mario Mandzukic netted in the 109th minute to complete a remarkable comeback from a shattered Croatian team.
Croatia beat England 2-1 in an utterly gripping World Cup semi-final in Moscow.
Croatia, the small nation of little more than four million people, made into the World Cup final for the first time in their short history.
The Balkan nation will play France on Sunday after prolonging England's 52-year wait to reach a second World Cup final.