Luka Modric went from zero to hero within the space of 32 seconds in Croatia’s crucial Group B clash with Italy at Euro 2024.

Following a goalless first half, Croatia were awarded a penalty in the 54th minute after a handball from Davide Frattesi, and the 38-year-old veteran stepped up to put his side ahead.

But his spot-kick was weak and easily turned away by Gianluigi Donnarumma, leaving Modric devastated. He could hardly have made amends any quicker, though.

Croatia regained possession and mounted another attack, with Donnarumma pulling off another fine save to deny Ante Budimir. However, his parry fell at the feet of Modric, who made no mistake this time around.

His goal sparked wild celebrations in front of the jubilant Croatian fans, as Modric collapsed to the ground and was mobbed by his team-mates after a remarkable passage of play.

Modric’s goal earned him a place in Euros history, as he became the oldest goalscorer ever in the tournament.

He is due to turn 39 in September, and Euro 2024 is expected to be his final major tournament.

The midfielder will have been hoping to go out with a bang, having finished second and third, respectively, at the last two World Cups.

But Croatia made a poor start to the tournament, losing 3-0 to Spain before being held to a 2-2 draw by Albania.

Heading into Tuesday’s match, they knew they needed to beat Italy to leapfrog their Group B opponents and secure a place in the last 16.

Modric’s goal looked to have secured them second spot and a route into the knockout stages, but Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th-minute equaliser leaves Croatia on the brink of elimination.

They must now rely on other results going their way over the next two days, but this could be the end for Modric on the international stage.

He was taken off with just over 10 minutes remaining, and could only watch on in despair as his team-mates failed to hang on for all three points.