FIFA World Cup 2018: Croatia, Denmark start well as South American teams struggle

Croatia claimed pole position in Group D with a hard-fought 2-0 win against Nigeria thanks to an own goal from Oghenekaro Etebo and a Luka Modric penalty.

Updated on: Jun 17, 2018 8:51 AM IST

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Croatia went on top of Group D with a magnificent 2-0 win over Nigeria while Denmark also started off well with a win over Peru. (AP)

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Denmark's forward Yussuf Poulsen celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the Russia 2018 World Cup Group C football match between Peru and Denmark as the Scandinavian country started their campaign on a high. (AFP)

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Denmark players celebrate as Peru players react after the final whistle of the Russia 2018 World Cup in a closely-fought encounter which they won 1-0. (AFP)

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Peru's midfielder Christian Cueva (C) reacts as he is consoled by his teammates after failing his penalty kick. (AFP)

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Denmark were put under immense pressure by a Peru side determined to do well on the World Cup stage. (AFP)

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Peru's goalkeeper Pedro Gallese punches the ball as he is fouled during the encounter. (AFP)

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Denmark's goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel makes a save as Peru fail to get back on equal terms. (AFP)

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France await Peru next, while Denmark will go into their game against Australia in confident mood after collecting three points. (AFP)

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Croatia's Domagoj Vida celebrates after Nigeria's Oghenekaro Eteb scored an own goal during the group D match between Croatia and Nigeria in Kaliningrad. (AP)

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Nigeria tried to get back on equal terms against a Croatia side who put them under pressure. (REUTERS)

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Nigeria were creating chances but Croatia were solid in defence. (AP)

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Nigeria players remonstrate after referee Sandro Ricci awarded Croatia a penalty (REUTERS)

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Croatia's Luka Modric celebrates with Ante Rebic as he converted a penalty to give Croatia a 2-0 win over Nigeria. (REUTERS)

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Croatia face a massive encounter against Argentina as Group D hots up thanks to Iceland securing a draw. (REUTERS)