Kramaric double fires Croatia as Canada crash out of World Cup

Croatia got their World Cup campaign back on track as Andrej Kramaric's double inspired a 4-1 win that eliminated Canada in Sunday's Group F grudge match in Doha.
Zlatko Dalic's side were stunned by Alphonso Davies's second-minute opener at the Khalifa International Stadium.

But Hoffenheim forward Kramaric equalised and Marko Livaja put the 2018 World Cup runners-up ahead just before half-time.

Fans of Croatia cheer on the stands during the match at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha. AFP

Second-half goals from Kramaric and Lovro Majer ensured Croatia could celebrate their first win of the tournament after a goalless draw with Morocco in their first match.

Croatia sit top of Group F, above Morocco on goal difference, and a draw in their final game against Belgium on Thursday would guarantee they reach the last 16.
Fans display images of Croatia's forward Marko Livaja and midfielder Luka Modric in Doha. AFP

It was an especially sweet success for Croatia after Canada boss John Herdman irked Dalic's men with his profane attempt to inspire his players after a 1-0 defeat against Belgium in their group opener.

Starting line-ups:

Croatia (4-3-3)

Dominik Livakovic; Josip Juranovic, Dejan Lovren, Josko Gvardiol, Borna Sosa; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic; Ivan Perisic, Andrej Kramaric, Marko Livaja

Coach: Zlatko Dalic (CRO)

Canada (3-4-3)

Milan Borjan; Alistair Johnston, Kamal Miller, Steven Vitoria; Richie Laryea, Stephen Eustaquio, Atiba Hutchinson, Alphonso Davies; Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David

Coach: John Herdman (ENG)

Referee: Andres Matonte (URU)

Agence France-Presse