HAMBURG (GERMANY), JUNE 19 :  In a pulsating clash at the Volksparkstadion on Wednesday, Croatia and Albania delivered a dramatic 2-2 draw in the European Championship, leaving both teams’ hopes of advancing to the last 16 hanging by a thread.

Albania stunned the football world by taking an early 1-0 lead against the 10th-ranked Croatia, courtesy of an 11th-minute goal by Qazim Laci. The underdogs showed no signs of intimidation as they fiercely defended their advantage.

Albania’s goalkeeper, Thomas Strakosha, was in exceptional form, making critical saves and keeping Croatia’s formidable forwards at bay.

As the second half began, Croatia returned to the pitch with renewed vigour. Head coach Zlatko Dalic made strategic changes, introducing Mario Pasalic and Luka Sucic. The substitutions injected new energy into the Croatian side, which began to relentlessly pressure Albania’s defence.

The breakthrough for Croatia came in the 73rd minute when Andrej Kramaric skilfully found the net, bringing the score to 1-1. The momentum seemed to shift decisively in Croatia’s favor just two minutes later, as a misfortune struck Albania with an own goal by Klaus Gjasula, giving Croatia a 2-1 lead.

However, the drama was far from over. Deep into injury time, Gjasula, seeking redemption, became the hero for Albania. In a moment of sheer determination and resilience, he scored the equaliser, securing a crucial point for his team. This last-minute goal left the Croatian players devastated and Albanian supporters jubilant.

The result leaves both teams in precarious positions. Croatia now faces the daunting task of defeating the European champions Italy to have a chance of advancing. Meanwhile, Albania needs to overcome Spain in their final group match to keep their hopes alive.

As the tournament progresses, this match will undoubtedly be remembered for its high stakes, intense action, and the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by players and fans alike.(UNI)