CROATIA BATTLE BACK FOR POINT

sarahmic

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Mario Mandzukic notched a second-half equaliser as Croatia drew 1-1 with Italy to stay at the top of Euro 2012 Group C.

Cesare Prandelli's side started brightly in Poznan, with Mario Balotelli shooting just wide in the opening three minutes, while Claudio Marchisio blasted just over after Balotelli's effort was blocked.

At the other end, Nikica Jelavic had a penalty appeal turned down by referee Howard Webb after going down in the box tussling for the ball with Giorgio Chiellini.

Balotelli then won a free-kick on the edge of the box and Andrea Pirlo hit an exquisite free-kick to net the 39th minute opener.

Croatia improved after the break, with Luka Modric having two early shots, as well as a succession of corners.

Slaven Bilic's side then drew level when Mario Mandzukic slotted in off the post from close range with 18 minutes remaining to keep his team top on four points ahead of their final game against defending 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.
 
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