KALININGRAD, Russia, June 16 -- Croatia's golden generation started their World Cup campaign brilliantly, leading Group D with a 2-0 victory against Nigeria on Saturday.

Featuring four forwards in the line-up, Croatia manifested nothing but ambitions to win their opening match, after witnessing an unexpected draw of Argentina against Iceland earlier in the afternoon.

Ranked higher than their opponents though, the Croats, carrying expectations and also pressure, spent almost 30 minutes to find the rhythm.

At the 32nd minute, Luka Modric's corner kick volleyed by Ante Rebic, culminated in Mario Mandzukic's diving header. The off-target shot was deflected by Oghenekaro Etebo into his own gaol.

The goal gave the Vatreni confidence and helped them gain the momentum gradually. Nigeria, the youngest team of the tournament only struggled to equalize the game with sporadic efforts.

After switching sides, Croatia continued to control the game thanks to their talented midfield dual - captain Modric and Barcelona's midfielder Ivan Rakitic.

At the 71st minute, Mandzukic was wrestled down in the penalty by William Ekong, and Croatia's captain did not waste the chance to double the lead.

"It's a great start for Croatia, we deserved to win. Nigeria played well, but we were better," said Modric after the match. "I believe we will continue the journey as we planed," added the Real Madrid's midfielder.

【体坛英语资讯：World Cup: Croatia defeat Nigeria 2-0】相关文章：

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt expecting twins

★ 娱乐英语资讯：U.S.: celebrity passport info subject to sneak peeks

★ 体坛英语资讯：Germany seal berth of Euro 2008 semifinals

★ 体坛英语资讯：Rocket explosion

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Paris tones down the bling

★ 体坛英语资讯：Wenger signals that Lehmann can leave for right offer

★ 体坛英语资讯：England fails to qualify for Euro 2008

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Spears tops Hollywood star eBay sales

★ 体坛资讯：Tour reels from latest doping scandal

★ 体坛英语资讯：Liverpool co-owner Gillett reveals death threats