Croatia Falls 3-1 to Brazil in Orlando Friendly

The Croatian national football team was defeated 3-1 by Brazil in an international friendly match in Orlando, Florida.

Lovro Majer scored for Croatia in the 84th minute, while Danilo Oliveira (45+2), Igor Thiago (88 penalty), and Gabriel Martinelli (90+2) found the net for Brazil.

After a victory over Colombia, Croatia showed strong performances against the South American powerhouse, remaining competitive for most of the match. However, a costly lapse in stoppage time of the first half and a controversial penalty awarded to Brazil decided the outcome.

Coach Zlatko Dalić made seven changes compared to the Colombia match, with captain Luka Modrić starting. Brazil fielded Vinicius Junior but were without their star Raphinha.

The game began at a slow pace, with few chances in the first 20 minutes. Brazil’s first opportunity came when Modrić misplayed a pass to Vinicius, who set up Danilo for a shot saved by Dominik Livaković.

Livaković, who impressed during the 2022 World Cup match against Brazil, was again Croatia’s standout. He denied Cunha in the 36th minute with a foot save and stopped another attempt in the 42nd minute. Croatia responded with a header from Luka Vušković, parried by Brazilian goalkeeper Bento.

In stoppage time of the first half, Brazil took the lead on a swift counterattack. Vinicius, surrounded by four Croatian defenders, assisted Danilo, who scored his first goal for Brazil from close range.

Croatia dominated possession in the second half but struggled to create clear chances. Nikola Moro narrowly missed in the 78th minute after a pass from Lovro Majer.

In the 84th minute, Croatia equalized. Toni Fruk delivered a long pass to Majer, who ran onto it and beat the Brazilian goalkeeper. The celebration was short-lived, however, as the American referee awarded a penalty for a minor contact between Josip Šutalo and Endrick. Igor Thiago converted from the spot.

In the second minute of stoppage time, Brazil scored again on a counterattack, with Gabriel Martinelli sealing the 3-1 victory.