Zero to hero! Luka Modric misses the penalty before putting Croatia ahead just 32 SECONDS later in a crucial clash against Italy… as the midfielder creates Euro history.

Luka Modric went from zero to hero in the space of 32 seconds during Croatia’s crucial Group B clash with Italy at Euro 2024.

After a scoreless first half, Croatia were awarded a penalty in the 54th minute after a Davide Frattesi handball, and the 38-year-old veteran stepped up to give his team the lead.

But his shot on goal was weak and easily saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, leaving Modric devastated. However, he could hardly have made amends more quickly.

Croatia regained possession and launched another attack, with Donnarumma making another fine save to deny Ante Budimir. His save, however, fell at the feet of Modric, who made no mistake this time.

His goal sparked wild celebrations in front of jubilant Croatian fans, as Modric collapsed to the ground and was mobbed by his teammates after a remarkable passage of play.

His penalty was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma but he quickly made amends.

Modric’s goal earned him a place in Euro history, as he became the oldest goalscorer in the tournament’s history.

He is expected to turn 39 in September and Euro 2024 is expected to be his last major tournament.

The midfielder would have hoped to go out on a high, having finished second and third respectively at the last two World Cups.

But Croatia had a poor start to the tournament, losing 3-0 to Spain before being held to a 2-2 draw by Albania.

Heading into Tuesday’s match, they knew they had to beat Italy to leapfrog their Group B opponents and secure a place in the round of 16.

Modric may have ensured his tournament isn’t over yet by keeping his cool after having the worst time missing a penalty on the biggest stage.