Mandzukic strikes again to foil Italy - Reuters Africa

By Brian Homewood

POZNAN (Reuters) - Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic struck his third goal of Euro 2012 to earn a 1-1 draw against Italy who let their opponents off the hook after taking the lead in the Group C match on Thursday.

Playmaker Andrea Pirlo put Italy ahead with a majestic free kick six minutes before the break, rewarding their early dominance after they carved out a hatful of chances.

It was the first European Championship goal scored direct from a free kick since 2004.

Slaven Bilic's Croatia team have four points from two games in Group C while Italy have two points. Spain, who have one point, face pointless Ireland in Gdansk later on Thursday.

Croatia, however, could find themselves in trouble after their fans repeatedly threw flares onto the field, at one point leaving a pall of smoke hanging over the penalty area.

Bilic said: "Italy showed once again they're an exceptional team but I have to congratulate my team for showing willpower and character to fight back in the second half."

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli added: "We're up for it, the team is alive and we will fight right to the end. We had good chances in the first half, we could have done better. We lacked a bit of grit and energy."

Italy, with Pirlo pulling the strings in midfield and Mario Balotelli lively in attack, looked dangerous every time they came forward in the first half.   Continued...