The outstanding tackle of the World Cup? Certainly so far. Not just because of its execution but because of what it meant in the wider context of the game. Brazil were ahead and on their way to the World Cup semi-final. Croatia were out unless they could muster an equaliser in the second half of extra time.
And then the ball then broke to Fred, who appeared to have a clear run on goal. That was until the imposing figure of Josko Gvardiol came across to produce a textbook sliding challenge. Man was taken but only after ball – and it was from the tackle that Croatia mounted an attack that led to Bruno Petkovic's 117th-minute equaliser.
The small European nation would go on to eliminate Brazil on penalties. A result few envisaged but one that came as no major shock. Croatia have punched above their weight at previous tournaments, have taken high-profile scalps. It's simply what they do under Zlatko Dalic.
