Defeat for ‘Peka’ and Slovakia

Peter Pekarík started and played 88 minutes for Slovakia, who held their own for a lot of the game against Croatia. Both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances, with the most dangerous efforts coming from distance. In a second half that also lacked spark, it was a late set piece that would clinch the result. Marcelo Brozović latched onto a free kick that was only partially blocked and finished into the left corner (86’). The Slovakians tried to respond in the minutes that remained, but saw two promising chances saved by Croatian goalkeeper Ivica Ivušić.

Slovakia coach Štefan Tarkovič was left disappointed after the final whistle: “It was one of our best performances in my time as coach. Even a draw would have been less than we deserved and we ended up losing. Sometimes football is about mistakes and they can determine the result. In our next match against Cyprus we will go for the win again.” Croatia and Russia have pulled away slightly from the rest of Group H. Both now have ten points whilst Slovakia sit fourth in the group with six points.

On Sunday (05.09.21), Group E leaders Belgium have the chance to take a crucial step towards the 2022 World Cup when they face the Czech Republic. The Czechs are currently in second place, but a Belgium win could increase the gap to six points.