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World Cup qualifying: Balaban double earns Croatia 3-1 win over Iceland [Mon Sep 5th, 2005]
Reykjavik (Reuters) - Bosko Balaban scored twice in six minutes to help Croatia beat Iceland 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier and stay on course for a place in next year's finals in Germany.
Balaban struck in the 56th and 61st minutes after the hosts had taken a surprise first-half lead through Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen, in the 24th minute.
Although Iceland wasted two good chances of stretching their early advantage before the break, Croatia dominated the second period with three goals to stay on top of European zone Group Eight with 19 points.
Second-placed Sweden have 18 points, with Hungary in third on 13.
Balaban equalised after heading home a Marko Babic cross from the right and then put Croatia ahead when he finished off another cross, this time from Darijo Srna, his shot bouncing off Iceland goalkeeper Arni Gautur Arason's back into the goal.
Srna sealed the win with a penalty in the 82nd minute.
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