Denmark had made six changes since the 2-1 victory away against Austria last. One of those who gained renewed confidence was Christian Eriksen, almost on the day one year (363 days) after the horrific scenes at the Park when he suffered cardiac arrest in the European Championship premiere against Finland.
Eriksen made a comeback at the Park in a training match against Serbia at the end of March this year when he became the goal scorer in a 3-0 victory.
Denmark, who also defeated France 2-1, took command in front of a packed arena, but the first half contained mostly half chances. Andreas Cornelius had the best chance when he shot towards the far corner, but Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic stretched out and saved.
Croatia made three substitutions at the break and star duo Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic came on. Then it was much better speed on the guests and Modric forced Kasper Schmeichel to the Danish goalkeeper’s first save of the match in the 63rd minute.
Six minutes later, the guests took the lead. After a corner, Mario Pasalic struck in 1-0 from close range after Andrej Kramaric nodded the ball through the home player Pierre-Emile Højbjerg.
Denmark pressed in the end and had a ball in goal – but Jonas Wind was cornered for a clear offside.
The victory was the first for Croatia. However, Denmark retains the group lead in the A-division, two points ahead of Austria and Croatia and France is last on two points. France saved a point away against Austria, 1-1, thanks to a goal from incoming star Kylian Mbappé.