BREAKING: Brazil out of World Cup after losing to Croatia on penalties

FIFA 2022 World Cup favourites Brazil have been knocked out of the competition by last edition’s finalists Croatia in a round of 16 clash on Friday.

Brazil were held to a goalless draw in normal time, forcing the game into extra-time where Brazil were again held to a 1-1 draw, before going on to lose 2-4 on penalties.

Croatia scored with all four of their spot-kicks as Rodrygo – taking his team’s first kick – was denied by goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic and Marquinhos’ crucial fourth effort struck the post.

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Brazil had reached the quarterfinals after thrashing South Korea 4-1, with Neymar returning to the squad following an injury.

Against Croatia, Brazil thought they had carried the day when Neymar successfully broke the deadlock in the 105th minute before the opponents fought back to level three minutes to end of extra-time.

Neymar’s thumping effort equaled Brazil’s ‘official’ men’s goalscoring record, which is also held by Brazilian legend Pele.

Croatia will now face the winners of Friday’s other quarterfinal tie between Netherlands and Argentina.

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