When the match in Rotterdam had passed 90 minutes played by a margin, Croatia looked to have the final ticket ready. The score was 2–1 after the visitors had shown class and turned 0–1 down in the second half.
But then, in the 96th minute, the Netherlands equalized and forced extra time.
Once there, Croatia was outnumbered.
Just a few minutes into extra time, substitute Bruno Petkovic was allowed to wander more or less undisturbed deep into the Netherlands’ half and the Dinamo Zagreb striker unleashed a hard shot that home goalkeeper Justin Bijlow was unable to do much about.
After the 3–2 goal, Croatia had full control of the events. The Netherlands – who came into the game without several of the most famous players – neither could nor had the strength to achieve another equaliser. Instead, Croatia’s superstar Luka Modric was able to make it 4-2 on penalties with five minutes left to play.
In Sunday’s final, which will also be played in the Netherlands, Croatia will face either Italy or Spain. The semi-final between those giants will be played on Thursday. For the Netherlands, the bronze medal match awaits.