This group had a few surprises but it ended up like most expected it to. England entered the tournament with high expectations and while they did win the group with seven points, they haven’t exactly been the most convincing team around.
Croatia had a shaky start to the competition with a defeat to England while being 1-0 down against Czech Republic. However, they drew the game and an inspirational performance from their talisman Luka Modric against Scotland saw them finish second and make it to the last 16.
Many including myself, didn’t expect a lot from the Czechs in the competition. However, they produced a solid performance against Scotland and secured a draw against the Croats to qualify for the knockout stages for the first time since 2012.
Combined XI (4-3-3) from Group D
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (England)
Defenders: Vladimir Coufal (Czech Republic), John Stones (England), Tyrone Mings (England), Andy Robertson (Scotland)
Midfielders: Luka Modric (Croatia), Kalvin Phillips (England), Declan Rice (England)
Forwards: Ivan Perisic (Croatia), Nikola Vlasic (Croatia), Patrik Schick (Czech Republic)
Jordan Pickford produced some very crucial saves for England during the group stages while both John Stones and Tyrone Mings were formidable at the back. Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice also produced some fine displays from midfield.
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Croatia needed Luka Modric to step up and he did in spectacular fashion against Scotland. Nikola Vlasic gave a fine performance against Scotland and was also quite threatening during his substitute appearance against Czech Republic.
There’s a good chance of the CSKA Moscow man starting against Spain. Ivan Perisic has often been Croatia’s go-to man in major tournaments and he once again delivered this time, scoring a worldie against Czech Republic followed by another against Scotland.
Vladimir Coufal has had some fine moments at right-back for Czech Republic while Patrik Schick has dazzled spectators with his goals, especially his second against the Scots.
Scotland captain Andy Robertson led from the front and while his team couldn’t go through, he produced some excellent performances on the left flank.