Vedran Corluka heroics and Modric volley see Croats draw first blood in Group D

Once more, the stage belonged to Luka Modric. Eight years on from the tournament where he first announced himself to Europe, his stunning volley cemented his status as one of the great playmakers of the modern age. More importantly, it marked Croatia out as one of the foremost threats at Euro 2016, sealing a win over Turkey that was more dominant than the scoreline might suggest.

 Of course, anyone can ping one in from distance. But what distinguished Modric’s strike was its impeccable timing and breathtaking technique, even before you consider the fact that it came in the middle of a simply wonderful performance in midfield. He passed, he received, he dragged defenders out of position, he tackled, he intercepted. He would have been man-of-the-match even if he had not scored the winning goal.