The Poles also made several switches, with Celtic's Artur Boruc taking over from Fabianski in goal, while EbiSmolarek, Guerreiro and Wojciech Lobodzinski replaced Rafal Boguski, Gargula and Krzynowek.
Polish substitute EbiSmolarek had two decent efforts for his side in the closing stages but neither were on target, before Tomasz Zahorski missed a gilt-edged chance in the 88th minute when, after going clean through, he was denied by the feet of Runje as Croatia held on for the win.