In a recent match between Croatia and Italy during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group B football match, Croatia’s midfielder Luka Modric, wearing jersey number 10, made history by becoming the oldest goal-scorer ever at a European Championship. Despite his impressive performance and the accolades that followed, including a standing ovation from fans and a man-of-the-match award, Modric was left disappointed as his team failed to secure a win. Italy managed to draw 1-1 with a goal scored by Mattia Zaccagni in the eighth minute of stoppage time, leading to Croatia’s uncertain future in the competition. Modric, who is 38 years and 289 days old, scored the opening goal in the 55th minute, making him the new record holder at the European Championship.
During the game, Modric had a penalty saved by Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, but he quickly rebounded with a goal, surpassing the previous record set by Ivica Vastic in Euro 2008. Despite the disappointing outcome, Modric was praised by fans and journalists for his exceptional skills and contribution to the sport. In a post-game news conference, an Italian journalist expressed admiration for Modric and requested him never to retire from playing. Touched by the kind words, Modric responded by expressing his desire to continue playing for as long as possible, hinting at a potential retirement in the future.
Modric recently extended his contract with Real Madrid, where he has achieved significant success since joining the club in 2012. With an impressive track record of trophies, including multiple Champions League titles and a Ballon d’Or win in 2018, Modric remains a key player for both his club and the Croatian national team. Having played 178 games for his country since his debut in 2006, Modric has participated in five European Championships, with his goal against Italy bringing his total tally to four goals in 16 tournament appearances. Despite his success at the European level, Modric’s greatest achievements have come at the World Cup, where he led Croatia to the final in 2018 and secured third place in 2022.
Following the dramatic draw against Italy, Croatia is facing the possibility of elimination from the competition, a result that Modric described as “cruel” and emotionally challenging for both players and fans. Despite the disappointment, Modric emphasized the team’s fighting spirit and commitment to representing Croatia with pride. As the team captain, Modric acknowledged the difficult task of bouncing back from such a heartbreaking loss but remained optimistic about Croatia’s future in the sport. Ultimately, Modric’s performance and leadership on the field have solidified his status as one of the greatest players of his generation, with his legacy extending far beyond his goal-scoring records and individual awards.
