It was World Cup jubilation for Celtic defender Josip Juranovic whose Croatia side knocked out tournament favourites Brazil.

The 27-year-old had played in every game for his national team and put in a terrific performance.

It was a spirited performance from Zlatko Dalić’s side who had previously knocked Japan out on penalties in the last 16 and deserved what they got.

They had went down 1-0 in extra time after a magical goal from Neymar but pulled themselves level through Bruno Petkovic.

Croatia got an early boost in the penalties when Livakovic saved from Rodrygo and went on to win the shootout after Marquinhos hit the post. A footballing miracle once again.

Juranovic faced Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr for the third time in just over three months but dealt with the threat he posed before the 22-year-old was subbed off just after the hour mark.

Josip Juranovic
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Quarter Final – Croatia v Brazil – Education City Stadium, Doha, Qatar – December 9, 2022 Croatia’s Bruno Petkovic celebrates scoring their first goal with Josip Juranovic, Mislav Orsic and team members REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch

Jura as he is nicknamed at Celtic had a standout performance and rightfully earned lots of plaudits for his showing in 120 minutes of football.

It was reported that Atletico Madrid had sent scouts to the match between Croatia and Brazil as the La Liga side said to be keen on signing the Hoops defender.

He did himself no harm in the match up against quality opposition and it is likely that Ange Postecoglou will feel comfortable in adding on some numbers to the former Legia Warsaw mans price tag.

For anyone who doubted Juranovic’s quality at this level, he has proved how good a player he can be. When it comes to departing the Scottish champions, he should go for a significant fee and will now play at the semi final of the World Cup against either Argentina or the Netherlands.

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