FIFA World Cup 2018: Star-studded Spain fall, Croatia soldier on

2010 champions Spain were knocked out of the World Cup in the Round of 16 after losing to hosts Russia on penalties. Spain took an early lead due to an own goal by Russia but they later conceded through a penalty. They dominated possession, making more tham 1000 passes towards the end of extra time, but a resolute Russia defence kept them at bay. Spain's frequency of attacks increasing towards the end but Russia keeper Igor Akinfeev kept them out. The match went into penalties, a first in this World Cup. Koke and Iago Aspas failed to convert their kicks and Spain were dumped out. Later in the night, the match between Croatia and Denmark also went into penalties at the end of which the former came out as winners. (Source: Reuters)

Sergio Ramos and Spain celebrate after they take the lead against Russia. (Source: Reuters)

But just before half-time, Spain conceded a penalty. Artem Dzyuba stepped up and converted the spot kick. (Source: Reuters)

The match went into penalties and goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev pulled Russia over the line. (Source: Reuters)

The result sparked celebrations in Moscow and other parts of Russia. (Source: AP)

The match between Croatia and Denmark got off to a flier with Denmark scoring within the first minute of the match. (Source: Reuters)

Croatia equalised almost immediatly but the score remained 1-1 for the rest of the match. (Source: AP)

Luka Modric failed to convert a penalty towards the end of the second period of extra time. (Source: Reuters)

Croatia, in the end, won 3-2 on penalties and face Russia in the quarter finals on July 7. (Source: Reuters)