Mar Vs Cro - Second-half - Itv.mp4.mp4 -

The following events defined the final 45 minutes of the match as documented by ITV Sport and other major outlets:

Became the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final. Croatia pip Morocco to bronze - FIFA

In the 74th minute, Josko Gvardiol appeared to be tripped in the box by Sofyan Amrabat. Despite Croatian appeals, the referee and VAR did not award a penalty, keeping the score at 2-1. MAR vs CRO - Second-Half - ITV.mp4.mp4

The "Atlas Lions" pushed desperately for an equalizer in the closing stages. Their best chance came in the 96th minute when Youssef En-Nesyri met a cross with a powerful header, but it landed on the roof of the net.

Mateo Kovacic had a golden opportunity to seal the game in the 87th minute but dragged his shot wide of the far post. Final Standings Achievement 3rd Place Croatia Secured their second World Cup bronze medal (also 1998). 4th Place Morocco The following events defined the final 45 minutes

The second half of the third-place playoff at the 2022 FIFA World Cup saw Croatia successfully defend their 2-1 lead to secure the bronze medal. While the first half was a high-energy affair with three goals, the second period was characterized by exhaustion, strategic defensive play, and missed opportunities from both sides. Sat, Dec 17 2022 World Cup Third place play-off J. Gvardiol (7') M. Oršić (42') A. Dari (9') Key Second-Half Highlights

Croatia, led by captain Luka Modric , controlled much of the tempo. They focused on neutralizing Morocco’s counter-attacks, which had been so effective throughout the tournament. The "Atlas Lions" pushed desperately for an equalizer

Both teams showed signs of physical fatigue. Croatia’s Andrej Kramarić was forced off in tears due to a thigh injury, and Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq also had to be substituted, adding to their existing defensive injury woes.