Real Madrid's Luka Modric was the star of the show, dictating the tempo with his accurate range of passing from midfield.

Croatia's captain doubled his side's lead from the penalty spot after Nigeria defender William Troost-Ekong fouled Mario Mandzukic from a corner.

Mandzukic was also involved in the Vatreni's opener, when the striker's header was turned into his own net by Peter Etebo.

The Super Eagles lacked a punch throughout the contest and will have to improve to stand any chance of progressing from the group.

Here are our player ratings.

Croatia 

Danijel Subasic - 5

A spectator for most of the night.

Sime Vrsaljko - 6

Little to do defensively. Crossing let him down at times. 

Dejan Lovren - 6.5 

Won most of his headers but was rarely tested at the back.

Domagoj Vida - 6.5

A few important blocks but Nigeria rarely threatened.

Ivan Strinic - 6.5

Solid at the back and provided an outlet going forward.

Ivan Rakitic - 6.5

Booked for a late tackle but kept things ticking in the middle of the park.