UNSUNG HERO: Josko Gvardiol shines with decisive goal in Croatia’s draw Portugal to qualify for the quarter-finals

Josko Gvardiol struck a second half equaliser with City colleague Mateo Kovacic also featuring as Croatia secured a 1-1 UEFA Nations League home draw with Portugal to qualify for the quarter-finals.

The Blues’ defender struck on 65 minutes to cancel our Joao Felix’s first half opener in what was a high quality clash in Split.

While Portugal were already guaranteed top spot in Group A1, Croatia kicked off knowing a point would be enough to seal second place and so a place in the last eight.

However, a Portugal side missing Bernardo Silva, Matheus Nunes and Ruben Dias but captained by former City star Joao Cancelo, dominated the early proceedings and it was Roberto Martinez’s side who made the initial breakthrough just past the half hour.

A fine long ball form Vitinha split the hosts’ backline and created time and space for Chelsea striker Félix who first controlled the ball before then despatching a fine low finish, the goal upheld after a VAR check for offside.

Croatia sought an immediate response and the hosts came agonisingly close to levelling affairs on 39 minutes when Gvardiol’s neat, cushioned knock-down provided Andrej Kramarić to opportunity to hammer in a half volley which cannoned back off the post.

Kovacic made way for Mario Palasic at the break with Croatia seeking to mount a second half response.

And that pressure bore fruit on 65 minutes when Gvardiol – who had earlier seen an effort ruled out after a VAR check just eight minutes earlier – struck to level affairs.

The City defender again showed his attacking prowess, meeting Kristijan Jakic’s inviting cross and firing home with his left foot from six yards out.

While Portuguese goalie Jose Sa thwarted attempts by Luka Sučić, Andrej Kramarić, and Ante Budimir for the home team, Croatian keeper Dominik Livaković heroically denied Nuno Mendes as both teams attempted to manufacture a winner.

Three minutes into extra time, a Budimir attempt hit the bar, and the woodwork once more saved Portugal in a thrilling finish.

In the end, though, a point was a win-win situation for both teams, as Croatia secured second place in Group A1 and, along with the visitors, a trip to the quarterfinals.