Modric rolls back the years to send Croatia to UEFA Nations League final

Luka Modric delivered a show-stopping performance for Croatia as they claimed a 4-2 win over Netherlands in the semifinal of the 2023 UEFA Nations League.

Captaining his country, 37-year-old Modric started in midfield alongside Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic, who starred in the UEFA Champions League final four days ago.

Netherlands drew first blood in the encounter when they took the lead in the 34th minute. Borussia Dortmund striker Donyell Malen was on hand to finish after he was found by a precise ball from Mats Wieffer, who was making only his second appearances for the Oranje.

Ten minutes into the second half, Croatia were handed an equaliser when Cody Gakpo tripped Modric in the box. Former Leicester City forward Andrej Kramaric stepped up and slotted the penalty home.

Croatia turned the game on its head in the 72nd minute when Luka Ivanusec played the ball across the box for substitute Mario Pasalic to put it in the back of the net and give them the lead.

Netherlands equalised with virtually the last kick of the game through Club Brugge forward Noa Lang, who fired home following some pinball in Croatia’s box, sending the game to an extra 30 minutes.

Croatia retook the lead eight minutes into extra time via a stunning strike from distance from Bruno Petkovic, who had been introduced off the bench in the 90th minute. The Dinamo Zagreb star received a pass from Modric before proceeding to send a rocket into the back of the net.

Petkovic was once again pivotal for the fourth goal as he drew a foul from Tyrell Malacia in the box, resulting in a penalty. Modric stepped up and coolly converted from 12 yards to confirm his country’s place in the final of the UEFA Nations League.

Croatia will take on one of Spain or Italy in the final of the 2023 UEFA Nations League, with Modric set to get another chance to lead his country to a trophy after their third-place finish at the World Cup last year.