![Croatia's Modric Breaks Records For Oldest Scorer](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/lukaweb.jpg)
Luka Modrić, at 38 years and 289 days old, became the oldest scorer in EURO history by netting a goal against Italy at UEFA EURO 2024. This remarkable achievement came moments after his penalty was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Despite his historic goal, Croatia’s hopes were dashed when Italy’s Mattia Zaccagni scored in the eighth minute of stoppage time, resulting in a 1-1 draw and advancing Italy to the knockout stage.
Modrić surpassed Ivica Vastic’s previous record of being the oldest scorer, which was set at 38 years and 257 days during Euro 2008. Modrić received standing ovations from fans when he was substituted in the 80th minute and was applauded again at the post-game press conference.
Having played 178 games for Croatia since his debut in 2006 under Zlatko Kranjcar, Modrić is participating in his fifth European Championship. His goal against Italy brings his total to four goals in 16 EURO matches.
While he has enjoyed significant success at the World Cup, leading Croatia to the final in 2018 and third place in 2022, the draw against Italy means Croatia is likely to be eliminated from Euro 2024.
Reflecting on the match, Modrić said, “It was very stressful. We kept fighting like lions right to the end. But football is cruel. Sometimes it brings a lot of happiness, but sometimes it makes you very sad as well.”
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