Russian dreams of lifting the World Cup on home soil have ended after they were beaten on penalties 4-3 by Croatia this evening.
In a match the Croats were expected to win they were made sweat as a plucky Russia took them all the way to a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw after 120 minutes.
Russia who put up a brave fight were in dreamland on the 31st minute when Cheryshev scored a superb goal following a one-two with Dzyuba before he smashed home a shot into the the top corner.
The Russian lead lasted all of eight minutes when an unmarked Kramaric nodded home a header from Mandžukić’s cross.
Although both teams created a number of chances in the second half, but the game went to extra time as both sides finished the game level after 90 minutes.
Both teams pushed to win the game i the extra 30 minutes and it was Croatia who struck first when Vida headed in from a corner to put the Croats 2-1 on the night.
Russia who have been one of the surprise packages at this year’s tournament pushed hard during the remaining minutes and they were rewarded when Fernandes turned a header from a free kick home five minutes from time.
The match was ultimately decided on penalties and with Smolov and Fernandes missing both their penalties, Croatia were given an advantage even though Kovacic missed one from the spot.
However Rakitic made sure with Croatia’s fifth penalty and the Croats booked their place in the last four.
Croatia will now go on to face England with a place in the final up for grabs.