Euro 2012: Italy held by stubborn Croatia

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http://www.espnstar.com/football/euro-championships/news/detail/item815669/Italy-held-by-stubborn-Croatia/

Mario Mandzukic scored his third goal in two Euro 2012 games to pull a goal back for Croatia to draw 1-1 with Italy.

Croatia went into the Group C encounter knowing a win over Italy would guarantee them a last-eight place, but they were decidedly second best in the opening 45 minutes at Poznan's Municipal Stadium.

Italy deservedly led at the half-time interval courtesy of Andrea Pirlo's stunning free-kick, but were never the same attacking force in the second period, allowing Mandzukic to equalise in the 72nd minute.

With four points from two matches, Croatia now face a challenging final clash with reigning world and European champions Spain.

As for Italy, who have now drawn both of their matches, they know they will have to beat the Republic of Ireland on Monday to be in with a chance of a quarter-final spot.