Italy held to a 1-1 draw by Croatia

Croatia held Italy to a 1-1 draw in a Group C match at the Euro 2012. It goes rather unnoticed but Croatia are ranked higher than Italy in FIFA rankings at 8th to Italy's 12th. (AFP Photo)

Italian coach Cesare Prandelli would have been looking to see a much more improved and attacking Italy side and his players did not disappoint him. The Azurris began the game well with multiple attacks on the Croatian goal. (AFP Photo)

Italy launched attacks after attacks on Croatian goal. Croatian goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa jumps to protect his goal during the match. (AFP PHOTO/ DIMITAR DILKOFF)

Mario Balotelli was disappointing against Spain but looked in much better touch as he came close a few times. But Balotelli did not manage to score a goal yet again. (AFP Photo)

It was veteran midfielder Andrea Pirlo who provided Italy the necessary impetus. Pirlo has been in fine club form and he reciprocated the same to give Italy a much needed lead. (AFP Photo)

Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo celebrates with teammates after scoring against Croatia. (AFP Photo)

Claudio Marchisio tried hard to score for Italy but Croatian goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa kept him out with a double save. (AFP Photo)

Croatia looked rather jaded in the first hour or so. They tried tactics other than those required on the pitch but to no avail. (AFP Photo)

Croatia coach Slaven Bilic looked animated, as he tried to get his side going, from the sidelines. (AFP Photo)

The Croatians, ranked 8th in the world as per FIFA rankings, were always in the hunt. It was heartbreak for Italy when Mario Mandzukic springed up a surprise goal for Croatia. (AFP Photo)

Mario Mandzukic landed a 'near death' blow to Italy as their chances to qualify to the next stage look rather bleak now. (AFP Photo)