Goals from Ivan Perišić and Mario Mandžukić helped Croatia to go to their first ever World Cup final. Croats had to come back after a perfect free-kick by Kieran Trippier early in the game, but they showed outstanding commitment and fitness as it was their third extra-time in the knock-out stage already. So they already played additional 90 minutes.

In spite of Trippier's goal Croatia fought hard in the second half and probably deserved an equalizer scored by Ivan Perišić. Forward jumped high after a cross by Vrsaljko and just beat Pickford narrowly. When it all went to the extra time Croats seemed to be fatigued, but still organized a couple of very good attacks one of them crowned by Mandžukić perfect drive.

Croatia reached world cup final for the first time in their history, and achievement not equaled even by former Yugoslavia (they had just two semifinals). They'll face France in ultimate showdown at Luzhniki in Moscow on Sunday.