Croatia v Australia

Jelavic gives Croatia win over Australia

Updated: May 17, 2023, 01:34 am

Croatia celebrate after Nikica Jelavic's goal in the second half.

SALVADOR, Brazil -- Forward Nikica Jelavic scored in the 58th minute to give Croatia a 1-0 win over Australia in the teams' final warm-up match before the World Cup.

The Hull striker was given plenty of room after receiving a pass inside the box and rocketed the ball from close range past Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

There were no real scoring opportunities for either side in the first half.

Croatia have several injury concerns with Greece-based defender Danijel Pranjic replaced with an apparent ankle injury. And Eduardo da Silva suffered an injury to his right leg and was substituted off in the 79th minute.

Croatia play Brazil to open the World Cup on June 12. Australia play Chile in their opening Group B match the following day.

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