Verdict: So much for Austria being pushovers - they looked like they were in for a battering after Modric's early pen but came back to give Croatia a heck of a test. Certainly, the home side created enough chances in the second half to warrant a draw.
Entertainment value: Slaven Bilic's side came out of the blocks quickly, but lost their way after about half an hour. Things livened up again in the closing stages, though, as Austria pushed for the elusive equalizer.
Heroes: Modric looked a class act in the midfield, though his influence waned as the match progressed. Austria defender Prodl looked dangerous at both ends, while Ivanschitz didn't do much in open play but delivered some marvellous set-pieces. My man of the match, however, was Josip Simunic - the Croat defender made some great tackles and interceptions.
Villains: Pretty much all the forwards on the pitch. For Croatia, Petric looked like he was just out to sunbathe, while Olic ran a lot without delivering an end product. You could also apply the same descriptions to Austrians Linz (who also appears to fall down under the slightest breeze) and Harnik respectively.
The job ahead: Bilic knows that Croatia must play better to get a result against Germany, but also that two draws is all they need to go through. Austria, meanwhile, simply must beat Poland now to leave themselves a realistic chance of progression - but they will be encouraged by their performance.
L.
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