The following events defined the final 45 minutes of the match as documented by ITV Sport and other major outlets:

Mateo Kovacic had a golden opportunity to seal the game in the 87th minute but dragged his shot wide of the far post. Final Standings Achievement 3rd Place Croatia Secured their second World Cup bronze medal (also 1998). 4th Place Morocco

Croatia, led by captain Luka Modric , controlled much of the tempo. They focused on neutralizing Morocco’s counter-attacks, which had been so effective throughout the tournament.

Both teams showed signs of physical fatigue. Croatia’s Andrej Kramarić was forced off in tears due to a thigh injury, and Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq also had to be substituted, adding to their existing defensive injury woes.

In the 74th minute, Josko Gvardiol appeared to be tripped in the box by Sofyan Amrabat. Despite Croatian appeals, the referee and VAR did not award a penalty, keeping the score at 2-1.

Became the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final. Croatia pip Morocco to bronze - FIFA