Leipzig, Germany: A standing ovation, a man-of-the-match award and a record. But Croatia star Luka Modric was in no mood to celebrate, regardless of the accolades, after what could have been his last appearance at a major tournament. Modric scored against Italy on Monday to become the oldest goal-scorer ever at a European Championship.
Ultimately it wasn’t enough to ensure his team stays in the competition. Mattia Zaccagni scored in the eighth minute of stoppage time for Italy to draw 1-1 and advance to the knockout stage. Croatia needs an improbable series of other results going its way to remain at Euro 2024.
Modric, who is 38 years and 289 days old, claimed the opening goal on a rebound in the 55th minute, within a minute of having a penalty saved by Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The previous record was held by Ivica Vastic, who was 38 years, 257 days old when he scored for Austria against Poland at Euro 2008. Modric received standing ovations from fans when he went off in the 80th, and he was applauded again when he showed up for the post-game news conference.
One Italian journalist started by telling Modric he was one of the most magnificent players he had ever seen. He said he had no question to ask, just a request for him never to retire from playing. Modric seemed genuinely moved by the kind words.
"I’d also like to keep playing forever but there probably will come a time when I’ll have to hang up my boots,” he replied. "I’ll keep playing. I’ll co.