Friday 15 June 2012

Italy, Croatia settle for draw


Pirlo
Mario Mandzukic’s goal saw Croatia come from behind to force a 1-1 draw with Italy in Group C of Euro 2012 on Thursday.
Italy opened the scoring in Poznan through an excellent free-kick from Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who beat Stipe Pletikosa at the goalkeeper’s near post six minutes before half-time.
It took Slaven Bilic’s side until the 71st minute to force the equaliser, when Mandzukic collected Ivan Strinic’s cross at the back post, before netting via a deflection off the upright.
Italy showed their intent early on by looking to attack their opponents on the break – Christian Maggio, Pirlo and Antonio Cassano all proving important outlets.
Mario Balotelli enjoyed the first sight of goal inside the opening three minutes, with his shot from the edge of the box whistling just wide of the target.

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