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Croatia 4 Greece 1: Kalinic leads play-off rout in Zagreb

Greece's hopes of reaching Russia look bleak after a series of defensive mistakes proved costly in Zagreb.

Croatia seized control of their World Cup qualifying play-off against Greece as they claimed a commanding 4-1 home victory in the first leg on Thursday.

Despite being without Mario Mandzukic, who was only fit enough for a seat on the bench due to a hamstring strain, the hosts cruised to victory on a cold night in Zagreb, putting them within touching distance of a place at the finals in Russia next year.

Having had a hand in the first goal, forcing a foul from goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis to win a penalty that was converted by Luka Modric, Nikola Kalinic steered home a second from close range.