POZNAN - Mario Mandzukic scored his third goal of Euro 2012 as Croatia came from behind to draw 1-1 with Italy and strengthen their position in a tough Group C on June 14.
Italy, who drew 1-1 with holders Spain in their opening
game, had the best of the first half and after missing several
chances went ahead after 39 minutes when Andrea Pirlo curled a
free kick over the wall, the first European Championship goal
direct from a free kick since 2004.
Croatia forced their way back into the game and levelled
after 72 minutes when Giorgio Chiellini misjudged an Ivan
Strinic cross and Mandzukic brought it down and smashed it in to
add to the two headers he scored in the 3-1 win over Ireland.
Croatia have four points, Italy two and Spain one ahead of
their game against pointless Ireland in Gdansk later on
Thursday.
