Italy 1-1 Croatia: Mario Mandzukic leveller denies Azzurri

STV

A stirring comeback from Croatia levelled the match against Italy in Poznan.

A stunning free kick from Andrea Pirlo had given Italy a deserved 1-0 lead at half-time.

A great touch and shot by Mario Mandzukic meant the teams would share the spoils though.

The Group C showdown saw Italy have the better of possesion and territory in the first half, with Antonio Cassano a constant thorn in the side of the Croats.

Pirlo was spreading the play and preventing Croatia danger men getting on the ball.

In the 39th minute, after a spell of pressure which saw Stipe Pletikosa make a stunning double save from Cassano, a free kick on the corner of the box was curled expertly inside the post by the Juventus ace Pirlo.

Croatia started the second half strongly and applied pressure to a tight Italian defence.

A series of corner troubled the Azzurri but they held firm.

Croatia efforts finally told in the 72nd minute when Mario Mandzukic skillfully controlled a cross from the left before steering a high strike into the net via the near post.

Slaven Bilic's team continued to press but could not find a second break in behind a defence that was well marshalled by Giorgio Chiellini all day.

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