Match: HRVATSKA – COSTA RICA 3:1 (1:0)
Tournament: FIFA U-17 World Cup, Doha, Qatar
Venue: Al Rayyan, Aspire Zone 4
Referee: J. Chavani
Goals: 1:0 – Radoš (35’), 2:0 – Kumar (55’), 2:1 – Cordero (58’), 3:1 – Kusanović (89’)
Yellow Cards: Radoš (41’), Umana (81’), Kusanović (90+5’)
Croatia: Grahovac, Kostelac (90+2’ Murica), Jakirović, Kumar, Pajsar, Smiljanić, Radoš (56’ N. Horvat), Slišković, Benkotić (76’ Vojvodić), Šivalec (56’ Burcar), Kusanović
Coach: M. Budimir
Costa Rica: Orourke, Sosa, Cordero, Calderon (61’ Farrier), Espinoza, Perez, Bennette (74’ Umana), Badilla, Barley, Sibaja (85’ Chavarria), Brown (61’ Aleman)
Coach: R. Row
After a draw against Senegal and a victory over the United Arab Emirates, Budimir’s team defeated Costa Rica in the final group match, finishing second in Group C. Croatia secured second place due to a slightly lower goal difference compared to Senegal.
The opening goal came from Radoš in the 35th minute, assisted by Pajsar, and the lead was doubled by Kumar’s header in the 55th minute, following a corner from Šivalec. Costa Rica reduced the deficit with a long-range strike from Cordero just three minutes later, but Kusanović sealed the 3:1 win in the closing minutes of the match.
Round of 16 matches will take place on November 14 and 15, with Croatia’s opponent to be determined after the conclusion of other group stage matches.
Group C Standings – FIFA U-17 World Cup:
Senegal – 7 points (6:0)
Croatia – 7 points (6:1)
Costa Rica – 1 point (2:5)
UAE – 1 point (1:9)
