Photo: AP Croatia did what they were supposed to against the Irish, and with a win over Italy on Thursday, will clinch a quarterfinal berth at Euro 2012. However, Italy is no Ireland and adjustments must be made to ensure victory. Or do they? Coach Slaven Bilić opted to slot captain Darijo Srna at right back for the Ireland game, opening up a spot in the midfield for … [Read more...] about THE ITALIAN JOB
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EURO 2012: It’s Time
By 58 CommentsIllustration: ESPN EURO 2012 has finally arrived; and for Croatians, it's been a bumpy road getting this far under charismatic coach Slaven Bilić. The roller coaster ride started on a high note in 2007 when the Vatreni not only prevented England from qualifying for Euro '08, but also went perfect in group stage, defeating Germany on the way to the quarterfinals. With … [Read more...] about EURO 2012: It’s Time
The Italian Job
By 63 CommentsPhoto: FootballJustice.com Looking forward to Euro 2012 Group C, involving Spain, Italy, Croatia and Ireland, a majority of the world consensus has already given top spot to reigning Euro champions and current World Cup winners Spain. With that said, second place is up for grabs and is a virtual coin-flip between Italy and Croatia. With less than two months before kick … [Read more...] about The Italian Job
Late Croatian Effort Not Enough
By 29 CommentsThe streets around Zagreb Arena were alive, as fans poured in to watch #14 Croatia play #4 Russia. With an unsuccessful resume in futsal thus far, Many never thought that the Croatians would make it this far. Written by Matt 'TheGoldenChild' Lebo @SportsFile The mini Vatreni were riding a wave of confidence after their spectacular shootout victory against #8 … [Read more...] about Late Croatian Effort Not Enough
CROATIA DRAW SPAIN, IRELAND AND ITALY
By 147 CommentsPhoto: Jutarnji Croatia get Spain, Italy and Ireland at Euro 2012 The EURO 2012 Draw has concluded and Croatia has been grouped with world champions Spain, 2006 World Cup champions Italy and an Ireland side that qualified through the playoffs. It will be a tough group, but it could have been worse. Group B is where all eyes will be as this year's 'Group of Death' is … [Read more...] about CROATIA DRAW SPAIN, IRELAND AND ITALY