Modric and company thump Nigeria

● An own goal and a penalty gave Croatia a comfortable start to their World Cup campaign as they beat a limp Nigeria 2-0 in their Group D clash at the Kaliningrad Stadium last night.

A diving header from Mario Mandzukic was deflected into his own net by Nigeria midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo after 32 minutes to hand Croatia the half-time lead, doubled by Luka Modric’s successful penalty kick in the 71st minute.

It was awarded after Nigeria defender William Troost-Ekong had wrestled Mandzukic to the ground right in front of the referee, wrapping both arms around the striker as they jostled for space in the

Nigeria box.

● France launched their World Cup campaign with a 2-1 win over Australia yesterday as the video assistant referee system was used for the first time in a World Cup.

The Group C match in Kazan was goalless when Antoine Griezmann went down after a tackle in the second half. Referee Andres Cunha did not award a penalty but after viewing the VAR footage, ruled it was a spotkick and Griezmann gave France a 1-0 lead.

Minutes later the Socceroos drew level through a penalty of their own after a clear handball by Samuel Umtiti, although this time it was awarded by the referee, with

Mile Jedinak scoring past Hugo Lloris.

Paul Pogba won the tight match for France when his shot bounced over the line in the 81st minute.

France were frustrated by a gutsy Australian defensive display and French pride was restored only in the 81st minute.

Striker Olivier Giroud, still wearing a bandage around a recent head injury, replaced Griezmann minutes before, playing a one-two with Pogba on the edge of the area.

Pogba’s shot took a deflection off the boot of defender Aziz Behich before creeping over the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Mathew Ryan and bouncing over the goalline.

France are hoping to join tournament favourites Brazil, Germany and Spain in the latter stages as they look to make amends for losing the Euro 2016 final to Portugal. — AFP