Group C started their road to the final with holders Spain against Italy. The Italians fielded an attacking side along with 3 central defenders whilst the Spanish went with 6 midfielders and no real forwards. The game started as expected with both teams looking at one anothers tactics, but was fairly entertaining in a goal-less first half.
The second half sprung into life when the frustrated Balotelli was substituted for Di Natale and within 5 minutes Italy were 1-0 up. Fabregas then levelled after some very nice play with an assist from David Silva after 64 minutes. Both sides had chances especially Torres, who wasted most of them and the game finished
Spain 1-1 Italy
Republic of Ireland came into the game with Croatia on an impressive unbeaten run of 14 games but were one goal down (Mandzukic) after only two minutes. The gritty Irish fought back and levelled after a free kick found St Ledger at the back post on 19 minutes. Croatia pressed forward and took the lead again just before half time through Jelavic.
Into the second half and Ireland huffed and puffed but went further behind when Mandzukic grabbed his second and Croatias third goal when the ball hit the post and rebounded in off Givens head. Both teams made all 3 substitutions but a series of free kicks ended with defeat and a mountain to climb for the men in green.
Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia
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