Croatia thrash Argentina to reach World Cup knockout round (Match Highlights)

2018 FIFA World Cup Russia: Argentina 0-3 Croatia (Match Highlights)

Argentina are on the brink of World Cup elimination after their 3-0 loss to Croatia on Thursday night.

The former World champions lacked any urgency and invention as they struggled to dominate the Europeans.

It was 0-0 at halftime with Croatia controlling the pace of the game, Modric, Rakitic, and Brozovic dominated the Argentine midfield, the Croatian captain was at his best as he orchestrated Croatia's brilliant performance.

Eight minutes into the second half, a Willy Caballero error fell to Croatia forward Ante Rebic who brilliantly volleyed home to give the Europeans the lead.

Sampaoli made a quick substitution immediately after the goal, bringing on Gonzalo Higuain for Sergio Aguero. Argentina struggled to find any momentum as they pass the ball around with no intensity.

Real Madrid midfielder Modric doubled Croatia's lead in the 80th minute from outside the box with a screamer to beat Caballero. Argentina still in shock looked to have given up on the game with some lacklustre display going forward. Messi was unable to bring any spark to the game, Croatia wrapped the game up with a third goal by Ivan Rakitic in injury time.

Croatia booked their place in the knockout round with this win, while Argentina need other teams in the group to do them a favour.

If Nigeria beats Iceland on Friday, it will blow the group open with all teams still standing a chance to go through. Group D is really the Group of Death, isn't it?