Croatia progressed into the World Cup quarterfinals after winning a penalty shootout over Japan on Monday following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Daizen Maeda gave Japan the lead at the Al Janoub Stadium just before half-time when he pounced following a deep free-kick into the opposing penalty box. Croatia hit back through a super header from Ivan Perisic on 55 minutes to set up a tense final half hour, although either side could find a winner inside 90 minutes, nor in extra-time.
Croatia, who finished runners-up four years ago in Russia, advance to the quarterfinal stage where they will face either Brazil or South Korea, who play later on Monday.