Croatia Upset Spain, Euro 2016 Knockout Stage Just Got Nuts
By Ty Duffy
Ivan Perisic scored in the 87th minute. Croatia beat Spain 2-1 to win Group D. That result will have a dramatic impact on the knockout stage.
Spain and England failed to win their groups as anticipated. That means they are in the same side of the bracket as France, Germany, and Italy. That is the five of the top six favorites to win the tournament on one side. If Portugal finishes second in its group, that would mean six of the top seven favorites.
Never count out the Italians. But, their reward for clinching Group E is Spain in the Round of 16 and a probable path of Germany and France just to reach the final. Woof.
The other side of the bracket looks wide open. Belgium may be the only pre-tournament favorite on that side of the bracket. Switzerland, Poland, Wales, and Croatia fans will have their eyes wide.