Russia 2018: Croatia fans hit the streets

Croatian fans lined the streets of Zagreb on Thursday night and watched on in delight as they saw their country beat Argentina to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup.

Supporters packed into the Ban Josip Jelacic Square in the heart of the capital city to watch Luka Modric and Co take on the South Americans on giant television screens.

They created a carnival atmosphere after the game as images show them wildly celebrating their nation easing to a comfortable 3-0 win in Nizhny Novgorod.

Supporters could be seen climbing on each other’s shoulders to get a glimpse of the action, chanting into the early hours of the morning and letting off flares in celebration.

There was barely any room to move as thousands of fans crammed into the square for the game with flags, scarves and even wearing water polo caps.

A number were pictured visibly emotional at the result with one female fan snapped close to tears as her side cruised to victory.

Croatia overcame Lionel Messi and his South American team-mates with second-half goals from Ante Rebic, Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic.

Their two wins from two matches mean Zlatko Dalic’s side only need a draw against Iceland in the final group game to secure top spot.

It is only the second time Croatia have won their opening two games at a World Cup, after the 1998 tournament that saw them reach the semi-finals in France.