Talking Points: Croatia's depth in attack their biggest strength?

The Vatreni emulated their country's Golden Generation who made it to the World Cup's final four in 1998.

Croatia became the final team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2018 semi-finals after they barely managed to defeat a defiant Russia on penalties after a 2-2 draw after extra-time. In what was a physical encounter, Croatia were helped by the heroics of goalkeeper Danijel Subasic in the end, as the hosts exited the tournament with their heads held high. Let's take a look at the talking points for the game.

Watch: Russia 2-2 Croatia (3- 4 penalties)

5. Danijel Subasic once again saved Croatia's blushes

Croatia didn't really have the most comfortable time dealing with hosts Russia and were actually put on the back foot on multiple occasions. Russia had many chances to score, but the brilliant Danijel Subasic proved his fantastic goalkeeping abilities throughout the game.

Even after suffering what seemed like a pulled hamstring, Subasic kept on playing like a warrior and made some stunning saves in extra-time to keep his side in the tournament. He was again superb in the penalty shootout and was influential in their passage to the semis.

4. Denis Cheryshev is a national treasure

Many fans were surprised to see Denis Cheryshev being dropped in Russia's game against Spain in the Round of 16, but manager Stanislav Cherchesov didn't make the same mistake twice and started the clinical midfielder against Croatia. Cheryshev was a menace like always and played the role of the goal-seeking midfielder perfectly.

He awed everyone with a fantastic goal in the first half. Cheryshev was Russia's breakout star at this World Cup and should be held in high regard for his excellent work in helping them get so far.

3. Croatia's depth in attack a valuable asset

Croatia made an interesting change before the game against Russia, bringing in potent goalscorer Andrej Kramaric to replace Marcelo Brozovic as they had effectively changed to a two-man midfield pivot with Kramaric as a shadow striker. It turned out to be a great change, with Kramaric scoring an impressive equalizer and being a constant pain in the neck for Russia.

This inspired change also proved the impressive depth Croatia have in their attack and because of their midfielders' ability to take the ball forward, they're an even more dangerous team. This wide-range of attacking options is actually an asset for Croatia and the right tweak could cause problems for England next up.

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2. Russia's stunning display should inspire many other "minnows"

Not many would've believed that Russia to come this far when the World Cup started a few weeks ago because of the hosts being the lowest ranked European team in the tournament, making many write them off then and there. But, it was the sheer fighting spirit of the hosts which helped them get far and with some immaculate support behind them, the Russians played their hearts out.

This fantastic showcase can actually inspire other "smaller teams" to believe in themselves and take the game to "bigger" opposition as well as developing a fearless attitude.

1. Fatigue could be costly for Croatia against England

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Croatia might've won the game against Russia, but suffered a few setbacks at the expense of their triumphant joy. Full-backs Sime Vrsalijko and Ivan Strinic were both substituted late into the game and looked to be really struggling. Mario Mandzukic also looked to be in a bad shape and barely played through the game, while Subasic seemingly picked up a bad pull as well.

Playing two 120+ minute games back-to-back could form a horrible case of fatigue in Croatia, something England will look to pounce on. They have a few days to recover, but will be facing a much fitter England side, against whom they'll have to put in another tireless shift to reach their first ever World Cup final.