Iceland 0 - Croatia 0

Photo by Halldor Kolbeins

Iceland played their biggest home match in history in Reykjavik today as Croatia came to town for the first leg of their playoff series.  In the first minute, Iceland had to clear off their own goal line.  An early block from Croatia defender Vedran Corluka prevented an early shot on goal from Alfred Finnbogason from disturbing the Croatian net.  At the end of the first half, Iceland lost Kolbeinn Sigthorsson to an injury.

Early in the second half, Iceland were dealt a major blow.  A ball from his own half by Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic (pictured, red #7) put Mario Mandzukic on the ball running toward goal.  Olafur Skulason tackled him just outside the penalty area, but the referee deemed him to be the last defender and sent him off the pitch for a red card, leaving the hosts to cope with ten men starting in minute 50.  A half volley reception was turned on goal by Ivan Perisic, but Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson made the save.  Then, a ball across from Eduardo was nearly turned in by Ivica Olic, but again Halldorsson saved Iceland from disaster.  Considering their numerical disadvantage, Iceland will be pleased with the 0-0 draw today.

Match Reports:
http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/11/15/5108560/croatia-iceland-2014-world-cup-playoffs-result
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2508024/Iceland-0-Croatia-0-match-report-Luka-Modrics-fail-break-10-men-hosts.html
http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/news/newsid=2224404/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news

Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wF52LXJKUy0