World Cup - Croatia 0 Ecuador 1

Ecuador marked their exit for their first ever World Cup finals by destroying Croatia’s hopes of progress.

Every Italian can thank Ecuador after Edison Mendez’ 46th minute goal helped to send Italy through despite their draw by Mexico.

Croatia were poor as they stumbled to defeat.

Mendez was set up for a left-foot drive that skidded low and wide of Stipe Pletikosa through a defender’s legs to end Croatia’s World Cup.

Ecuador deserved the win as the European side to struggled to get back on terms after conceding.

The South American side saved their best until last with Mendez and and Cleber Chala both coming close with shots before Croatia had their best spell before half time.

Alen Boksic hit a shot on the turn against the post in the 34th minute and had another shot blocked by Ivan Hurtado.

Boksic was frustrated again when Raul Guerron headed off the goal line after a clever lob in the last few seconds of the first half.

Milan Rapaic hit a second half free kick over the bar but Croatia did not deserve parity and go out.