Croatia crashed out of the World Cup today, missing a golden chance to qualify for the second phase at the expense of Group G rivals Italy after slumping to a 1-0 defeat against Ecuador.
Croatia, the third placed team at the 1998 World Cup, would have qualified for the last 16 if they had managed to defeat the South Americans at the Yokohama International Stadium as Italy could only draw 1-1 with Mexico.
But the Croatians were sent spinning to defeat and were eliminated along with bottom side Ecuador after a goal from Edison Mendez on 48 minutes.
Mexico topped Group G with seven points with Italy runners-up on four points. Both Croatia - who had upset Italy 2-1 last week - and Ecuador finished on three points.
The Croatian failed dismally to respond to Ecuador's winner and despite enjoying plenty of possession they hardly put any pressure on Ecuador keeper Jose Cevallos after falling behind.
Ecuador's winner came three minutes after half-time. A Ulises de la Cruz cross from the right was headed down by Agustin Delgado into the path of Mendez who sent a low shot ripping into the net.
Mendez's goal came after a lacklustre first half which saw neither side manage to get on top, each cancelling the other out in midfield.
AFP