Italy was ahead of Croatia. However, these advantages do not last until the end of the game because Croatia successfully equalized.
Cesare Prandelli was disappointed.
In the fight that took place at the Stadium Miejski,
Poznan, Thursday (14/06/2012) night, Italy appeared dominant in the first round. A number of opportunities owned by Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano, but Gli Azzurri would lead through Andrea Pirlo's free kick.
In the second half, Italy several times threatened Croatia's defense. However, goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa look slick to the rescue several times. Never scored, Italy ended up being broken.
Croatian goal came from a cross that is released by Ivan Strinic on the left side. Giorgio Chiellini could not reach it and the ball fell at the feet of Mario Mandzukic. Through a hard kick right foot, club VfL Wolfsburg attacker from breaking into the nets that Gianluigi Buffon.
Score 1-1 and lasted until the game is completed.
"We had a great chance. We take the lead and putting them several times, until finally came a cross it," said Prandelli as reported by Football Italia.
"But this team is so alive and vibrant. So, we will continue to fight until the end."
"We have a lot of good opportunities in the first half and obviously we can do better than that. We knew they would fight back and sent the ball straight ahead in the second round. However, we did a lot to risk," he said.
