Croatia U-17 Eliminated from Euro Despite Dedić's Hat-Trick Against Spain

Croatia's U-17 football team missed out on the European Championship semifinals in Estonia, finishing third in their group despite a dramatic 3-2 victory over Spain in their final match.

Under coach Marijan Budimir, the Croatian squad secured six points, the same as Spain and Belgium. However, a less favorable goal difference in the head-to-head standings among these three teams eliminated them from contention.

The match saw a thrilling comeback, with Jakov Dedić scoring in the 3rd minute. Spain took the lead with goals from Joaquin Sanchez in the 56th minute and Enzo Alves, son of Real Madrid legend Marcelo, in the 78th minute. Dedić then secured Croatia's victory with two late goals in the 82nd and 89th minutes.

Despite the individual brilliance of Dedić, who netted all three goals for Croatia, the team's tournament journey concluded at the group stage. Belgium secured first place in the group by defeating Estonia 1-0, while Spain finished second. The final group standings were Belgium with 6 points, Spain with 6, Croatia with 6, and Estonia with 0.

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In an incredible turn of events, Croatia finished third in the group despite having six points like Spain and Belgium, but with a weaker goal difference than both selections.