Luka Modric’s Penalty Propels Croatia Past Portugal in Thrilling Friendly

Luka Modric scored a penalty to help Croatia defeat Portugal 2-1 in a friendly, preparing for the European Championship. Croatia opens the tournament against Spain. Portugal, with Cristiano Ronaldo benched, has another friendly against Ireland before starting the competition against Georgia. Modric hinted at continuing with Real Madrid next season.

Luka Modric's penalty secured a 2-1 victory for Croatia over Portugal in a friendly on Saturday, finalizing preparations for the European Championship.

Croatia will face three-time winner Spain on June 15 in a challenging Group B, which also includes Italy and Albania. Despite the loss, Portugal, which sees Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, will play a final friendly against Ireland before opening the competition against Georgia on June 18 in Group F.

Modric, who was substituted in the 54th minute, scored early on and indicated he wishes to continue with Real Madrid next season. Ante Budimir and Nelson Semedo were also key players in this intense matchup.