Africa still awaits her first to win at Russia 2018 as Nigeria were beaten 2-0 by Croatia in a Group D game.
The Super Eagles who are in a tough group needed a positive result after Argentina were earlier held to a 1-1 draw by Iceland.
Croatia certainly started the game better and controlled the tempo.
They mounted pressure on Nigeria and that paid off in the 32nd minute.
Mario Mandzukic’s diving header from Modric's corner was helped home by Nigerian defender Etebo, signed by Stoke City this week.
They held on the slim lead till half time.
The second half began at a rather slow pace with chances few for both sides.
Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr introduced Ahmed Musa but it was the Croatians who added to their tally.
Nigeria defender Troost-Ekong grabbed Mandzukic in the box which resulted in a penalty.
Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric stepped up and scored in the 72nd minute to make it 2-0.
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Africa is yet to record a win in the World Cup after Morocco, Egypt all lost their first games.