Croatia v Spain Match of the Day Live

Good evening. We have already said farewell to some of the giants of

European football. The Republic of Ireland are out, you don't win 0.4

made a bitter and support sadly. Tonight one more top team will be

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

leaving, but will it be Italy, Here on BBC One we will be watching

Spain take on Croatia. Whoever wins in Gdansk will finish top of Group

C. Over on BBC Three, if you prefer, you can see the Republic of

Ireland's final game of Euro 2012, from 7:30pm, as they face Italy in

Poznan. The maths are complicated. So pay attention. We tried to

explain it to Robbie Savage, he is still lying in a darkened room. A

windfall Spain all Croatia will see Should Italy win, they will qualify.

But should Spain or Croatia draw 0- 0 or 1-1, Italy will win out -- a

miss out. But because at the head to head Raul, Italy could stick 10

past the Irish and still miss out it Spain and Croatia finishers in a

high-scoring draw. Italy have been making a few noises about match-

So, too-2 it is, then! Know of the result! I think everything is going

to be above board. We have got one good team and one great team here.

Watching the Spanish against the Republic of Ireland, Alain and I

both thought it was a masterclass in pass and move and technical

ability. It is all right to say that the Irish were week, but what

we saw that night was something else. Arguably, the best we have

ever seen in a position from any country. They have so many cars

players, you cannot look past them. The Spanish coach, del Bosque, says

they have to much on it to play for this crawl, and Slaven Bilic says

there is too much bad, -- too much on her to play but this craw. You

couldn't imagine that what happened. You can see that being the result,

though. They are going to score goals. Both these teams have got

goals in them. I wouldn't put it past two to two. They are going out

to win the game. It is going to take some effort for Croatia to

overcome this team. The Italians had a word or match-fixing, that is

funny, isn't it? I don't know why. Quite remarkable. This should be an

entertaining game, the interesting thing is that already, Croatia have

taken out one of those very effective strikers, Jelavic,

because they are in fear of the Spanish. I think it is the eternal

problem, how do you match up with the mid- field old Spain, that is

what they are trying to do. They have dropped Modric back, and

Vukojevic, those two are in midfield, along with Rakitic, they

have to stop Spain playing cannot Mandzukic up top on his own, he has

had four shot, and he has scored three goals. The only thing you

would say, and I agree entirely with what Lee has said, but against

the Italians, Croatia looked so much a better side in the second

half, when they went offensive. They played Modric between the two

strikers, further forward, and he was fantastic. Whereas in the first

half, he never got into the game. lot of teams have backed off

against Spain, but if you have got that sort of dynamism up front,

isn't it best to exploit it, and exploit the one weakness Spain have,

which is probably defensively? key is to get possession of the

ball for Croatia. That is what Spain do, they did you tired, the

move you around, you lose all perspective. If Modric can get on

the ball for Croatia, and I notice that they have moved Darijo Srna up

from right-back, I think it will be interesting to see if they can

penetrate and hurt Spain's ball backs. That is what happens, you

can get tired, a disillusioned, then you get impulsive, that leads

to mistakes. You panic, because you have not had the ball for so long,

you don't open up, and that is where the mistakes come from.

Spanish team is unchanged, so a Fernando Torres is in again. It is

phenomenal, when you look at Iniesta, Xavi, Silva, when we were

watching them against Ireland, we were watching them in awe. They

were against a weaker side, but they still had to control the ball,

they still had two players, and it was a masterclass. I love watching

them play. Some of the stats that came out of the game were

phenomenal. Xavi, the most attempted passes, the most

completed passes, at international level, that is phenomenal. But they

have, in that team, players that can come out and go in, you look at

their bench, all top players you're comfortable in possession.

thing with the Croatians is they will not give up. As much as Spain

have the ball, they will not give up, they will go to the final

whistle, and that is probably why they are playing white -- how they

are. The Republic of Ireland bow out with a game against Italy, the

birthplace of their manager, Trapattoni. And these two sides

Ireland versus Italy, we have been here before. 1990, Ireland was in a

lot of financial trouble, there was talk of recession, emigration, but

then a great head of foreign football man came into the country

and drilled us defensively. Jack Charlton. We will do that tomorrow

night, give it the last Jack. had a special talent. Less than 48

hours before the kick-off, we are all out side, with all the media

watching, and he rolled out the Guinness. Frankly, the world went

mad. There were a few promises made along the way, one of them was that

he would get an audience with the Pope. He was almost falling asleep,

the Pope was blessing everybody, Jack said he was waving back up at

him every time he woke up! Playing the hosts, Italy, in their home

stadium, should have been the most frightening thing in the world, but

the team at seemed to be DD with the sense of 04 achievement.

didn't have a clue what we were doing, it was the first time we

have played in a World Cup. No one expected us to win. The pressure

was right on the Italians. streets were deserted in Ireland,

everybody was gathered around a pubs in televisions. Half an hour

in, we are doing all right, we are Things are beginning to look good.

Hope begins to course through Irish Baines. Of all the places to land

the ball, at the beat of a man with the golden touch during that

tournament. That ball was coming straight down the line to me, then

it moved away. That was all I could do unfortunately. And we kind of

knew that was that. They were great days. Playing Italy in the World

Cup. When would we ever see the like have that again? Oh yes, the

next World Cup, in the first game. There was a bit of retribution

around, the lads were fully focused. We wanted to get in among system.

The last time we played them was in Rome, but surely, New York would be

? They were there in masses, it was unbelievable. We changed into a

white strip, the Italians were standing there in white also.

said, what is going on? How Rocket Man was going through the notes and

he said, a! We had no time to think about the game. Classic Irish mind

games. If they were confused by that cannot wait till they saw our

hats. We looked really stupid in hats. And so the game begins.

Watched with the same level of no expectation we had four years ago.

So if you can imagine an entire island, lifting off its feet when

this happened. I just thought, why not? Your at the World Cup. If it

goes wide, who cares? On his left but, I couldn't believe it!

celebration, I can't remember the celebration. I beg you remember

that Ray Houghton -- Live Aid you remember that Ray Houghton had

broken the pleasure centre of my brain. I have never done anything

like that in my life, nowhere near that celebration. I can only

imagine it was a release. I suppose, looking back you could say we were

comfortable. I don't recall feeling a lot of comfort at the time. Phil

Babb might have lost it for us. Was that a penalty? I wouldn't have

been very happy if we hadn't been given it, but I was incredibly

It was great to win our first game at the big stage, against such a

big scalp. Time for some new memories of Ireland against Italy

to stop we are all square. This, lad, is the decider. Let's take

Such a shame that a result wouldn't get done for it. Let's hear from a

man who used to play for Ireland, Up here in the's Stadium, I am

joined by the former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy.

There is a sense Ireland have underperformed. My analysis is that

if you base your success on a solid base, a defensive unit, and we have

conceded goals in each game after three minutes. That goes to pot

straight away. When you are playing against the likes of Spain, Croatia,

having to chase it, it suits them, they have just been better than us,

considerably. Are you surprised Trapattoni has not made more

changes? Not really, maybe he had put some fresh legs it and said we

are going to go for it... He is Italian, if they make wholesale

changes, he would get belted by all and sundry. He is protecting the

integrity of the competition. He is also showing loyalty to the players

who got them here. He is obviously picking his best team, if he

thought he could do better, he would change it. A what do you want

to see tonight? I would like to see a better performance. The only way

we will see that is if we keep it nice and tight, a clean sheet, if

we don't, we will be chasing it again. But there is talk of four

players, Richard Dunne, Robbie Keane, O'Shea, Damien Duff, packing

it in. They will not want to go out on another defeat. Very rarely have

they lost three in a row. I think Italy might get a shock.

mentioned Damien Duff are. It is his 100th career. He is

affectionately known as duffer. I gave him his debut a long time ago.

1998, I think. His contribution to the Ireland team has been immense.

He has been one of those players who has turned up for every game he

can, when he has not been injured. Really talented player, left-wing,

a right wing, I played him up front with a Robbie Keane, he was

outstanding. You couldn't wish to meet a nicer lad. I'm delighted he

is captain delight. Ireland against They will want to go out on a high

note. Definitely, they don't want to let people down. They will look

at the way they have performed. It just did not click for them. As far

as the Italians are concerned, they are getting better say it will be

an uphill task for Ireland today. I think Italy will win. The Italians

really need a result. Goals are important for them. It is a tough

game for Ireland. To go into that game, two defeat. I played him one

of those when you're out of the tournament in 1998 and it is really

difficult. Soul-destroying. -- 1988. I think a victory is a long shot.

Balotelli is not playing. Good news for the Italians! When you go back

to the Irish, when you look at the teams that Jack Charlton had, and

Mick McCarthy, there were a quality players through the side, but this

side have done really well to qualify. They've been a long way

short in this tournament. No lack of effort. Exactly. They've given

it their best effort. For the biggest downfall is trying to

ground out results and they have given early goals away. If you want

to watch the Republic of Ireland against Italy, that game is live on

Tomorrow night, England play their final -- final group game begins

Ukraine needing just a point to qualify. Gabby Logan is with them.

Temperatures of 30 degrees plus, a cauldron for the 50,000 seething

pit workers and again they must not lose. England go back into the fire.

I don't think I need to remind them that is an away game, the fans at

the stadium will be supporting the Ukraine rather than England and it

will be a tough ask for our travelling supporters to match the

vast number of Ukrainians, but they gave it a good go in Kiev so let's

hope they can do it again. unmistakable head must remain

cooler than the others tomorrow. Ripe for provocation, Rooney has

been told by his manager to ease himself into the game. It is a good

point. I'm sure Steven Gerrard and the other players will be keen to

remind him that what we require from him is a good team performance.

We want him to help us become a better team and win. I will not

tell Wayne Rooney not to be fired up for this game because that is

what he's all about. Pressing, being aggressive in the right way,

being a top player. The reason he's world-class is because of what he's

shown up until today. When he joined the 2006 World Cup late,

Rooney announce the big man is back. No such bravado this time. I don't

really feel pressure that I have to win the tournament for England. The

team has to do it. If I can contribute, great. It is not one

player. You can see with the best players around the world now, it is

not just them that will win the tournament, it is the team. He will

start, but will Theo Walcott? fit and we don't have any injury

concerns. Such were the storms of three days ago that even this is

done some can't try out the pitch in time. The players have been

restricted to a careful stroll on fragile turf. Considering how hard

it was for the grounds man and everyone connected with the game

the other night to ensure the game went ahead after such heavy

rainfall, we were quite surprised how good the field is. The city of

a million roses, that is what Donetsk calls itself. Guess where

else makes a cinema claim? Bloemfontein. But don't worry, this

England squad are quietly confident of getting out of here with the

result they need. I have regularly heard the thoughts

of Aland and Lee on England, how do you think they have fared so far,

Alan? I think we are a good side. We are a steady team. Wayne

Rooney's inclusion will lift us. He gives us that extra X-Factor you

need at this level. The goals against Sweden, the way we came

back, will give great confidence that they can retrieve any

situation. I think we are in a good place. You can see the smiles on

the training ground, we've been at these tournaments where you don't

see that from England teams. does Rooney come back for? He will

definitely start, so Welbeck or Carroll. I think Andy will go to

the bench. That is a nice option to have him on the bench with a goal

under his belt so he can come on and change it if he needs to.

a long time since Rooney scored... Are 2004. In a major event. This

was it against Croatia. He has hit How good is this? Never going to

miss. We have seen a lot of one because ones in this tournament. He

gives that bit of quality. what... The bid criticism of

England and the two -- two matches is in possession. Not only is

really good in possession, he is totally adept at getting possession,

making himself available, easy option, which is a big thing when

you are under pressure. Should Walcott start? I'm not sure. I

think he may stay with the same midfield and used him from the

bench if he needs him. The thing Rooney gives you is you don't need

to play three midfielders when he plays. He drops in. He is diligent

and he works hard enough. We may come up against Spain and you will

need him to do that. I think Walcott will play on the right hand

side. I think that will help us push the Ukrainians back a little

bit, give us more legs in order to get their team back a bit, which

allows us to come up from the back. We shall see. You can see

highlights of England against Ukraine and France against Sweden

on BBC 21 tomorrow night. Let's turn our attention to Spain against

Croatia. Before Euro 2012, many were saying of the Spanish that

their season had been too long, they are divided by club loyalties,

they are not as motivated as they once were and it is impossible for

any major country to win three tournaments in a row. I don't think

they've been listening. Spain are Spain at their wonderful best.

Expectations are higher than ever Torres cause! Lightning-quick,

It will be quite an achievement to win three major tournaments for a

team that were considered as perennial under-achievers. I've

heard people say they would be tired. Del Bosque said, tired

players have got something to aim at and or the sudden they have --

they are not tired anymore. You don't get tired when you've got the

ball and that is the key to Spain playing well, keeping possession. I

think they have a real chance, although I still stick by West

Germany, sorry, Germany. They say success is the easy part, continued

success is the hard part. But once you get a taste of it, you want

more and more of it. These guys have won it before, and the World

Cup, what will they be like in the dressing room? We want more of

that! If by some chance Slaven Bilic is chilling out watching our

coverage, how do you beat Spain? You need your team to be diligent

and defend well. Spain will have a lot of the ball. They need to have

positivity on the break, to have a front-foot mentality that you can

get a goal. It will be a great game tonight, a lot of talent on the

pitch. OK. Spain started the championship without a recognised

striker and the centre forward who played against Ireland was hardly

recognisable either. Who was that blond lad? Fernando Torres, L neo-.

The kid. But Spain's No. 9 has had to grow up in recent times. It all

used to be so easy. Fernando Torres! What a splendid goal!

Perhaps too easy. Atletico Madrid captain and the Spanish

international at just 19, courted by the kings of Europe, he chose

England and Liverpool. It was love at first sight. His first goal for

Liverpool! It guarantees him hero status for life. Torres became the

most feared from man in the Premier League. He was the poster boy for

On the world stage, Spain's golden generation were the CHEERING AND

APPLAUSE to. Four years ago the tag of perennial

under-achievers was finally put to rest. Torres delivered when it

Spain are European champions for Expectations were higher than ever.

Brilliant performances, perhaps taken for granted. The best was

expected to keep calm, but instead the body of the best began to creak.

Spain continued to dominate, but Torres was no longer centre stage.

The glory of that World Cup was tinged with personal pain. The

heartbreak Kid. The striker craved a change in fortune, a change of

scenery, and after four Trophy Les years, Liverpool were left behind

as the King's Road crowned the new king, but at a price. �50 million.

Torres toiled, the place seemed to have gone. Where was the strength,

the composure that came so easily? My goodness! Perhaps too easy.

know this season has been very difficult for him. But I think his

performances over the last few months prove a lot. I think it will

be positive. He hasn't played a lot this season. Now he is fresh. He is

highly motivated for the tournament. I don't think they will catch

Fernando Torres. It is two for Torres. No longer El Nino. Just

But true Grania was a player! A really good player. As was, for a

long time, Fernando Torres. Unbelievable story, talent and then

he lost his way. It seems like he may be turning a corner. He looked

very sharp against Ireland. From the centre forward's point of view,

this is Spain against Italy, playing with six midfielders. No

centre-forward, passing it around on the edge of the box. They played

a certain way because they have got no focal point up front. Look how

far ahead of the back four they are. They make it very easy for Italy.

He comes on in the second half, straight away he gets a chance

through the middle of the pitch. A silly offside and he should score.

The good bit of Torres and the not- so-good. And there Mackie years,

through the middle. Signs of him coming back. And then against Italy,

a bad touch. This is what he's all about. This is a finish the old

Torres would score quite easily. Now he is brilliant again. In the

same game he can go from being fantastically skilful, scoring

goals, being strong, to giving the ball away. Now you fancy him to

score. He is a real enigma. He has everything as a centre-forward. He

has pace, good in the air, decent with both feet, but there's

something not quite right. Something very ripe for a long

period. It is hard to envisage a scenario where it can vanish

forever. It had to come back at some stage. The one thing that he's

never lost is the technical ability. He is quick, he has two a good feet,

he can finish from anywhere. What you can see in him is a kind of

unhappiness when he plays. Sometimes he looks more miserable

than he did before. Confident. is. Maybe this tournament could be

the making of him getting back to real form by helping Spain win it

again. He is not as quick as he was in the first tee at Liverpool. In

his first tee at Liverpool, he was lightning. If he got half a yard,

the defender could never get near him. Now, he can't get away from

them as he used to be able to. He has struggled at Chelsea. At times

in this tournament, he has struggled. But it is all about

goals and he got two goals in the last game. If he scores two and

doesn't play very well on the ball, One interested spectator in a

Gdansk is the Everton manager, Evening, gentlemen. I am here with

David Moyes. You have spent all season plotting Everton's attack on

the Premier League, now you are spending your some out here

watching football, I bet your wife loves you! No, not all summer, she

has had a good holiday. I like to come and watch the players, always

good when you have some players involved as well. You used to

always come and watch tournaments when you're younger, but I'm sure

the hotel standard has gone up now,? Yes, I turned up today, and

found myself sharing a room with somebody else. The good news is,

they would probably spend the money on players, led to talk about the

players got a first double, Jelavic, a fantastic signing for Everton, I

disappointed he is not starting? There was always something that

Slaven Bilic had to have a decision on, whether to go with a two up

front for an extra midfield player, and I think he has made the correct

decision against really talented Spanish team. What would you do to

try and nullify that Spanish attack? Because they have

incredible quality of. You have to try and not get outnumbered in the

middle of the park, you know you are going to be out of position for

a lot of the night, you have to fill the middle of the pitch, I

think that is what Croatia are trying to do tonight. We have lost

the Dutch, the team who won their first match 4-1, are you amazed at

that Spain could still go out? It is that kind of tournament.

couldn't see how they could go after mind sure most of the viewers

will understand that as well. But they could well do so. We would all

expect Spain, the way they are playing and the players they have

got, to go through to stop you haven't got the best hotel room,

but you do have the best seat in the house. We will speed you later

in the evening. -- speak to you. So do you are playing the world

champions and you are managing Croatia, if you lose, it is likely

to be your last match in charge. Slaven Bilic and better make this

one heck of a team talk. The speech before the game, it is

very important. Churchill said once that he needs a speech that lasts

two hours, but he doesn't need the preparation. I thought, this beach

which lasts 25 seconds, he needs to days of preparation -- a speech. I

am going to tell them that we have to believe it. We have to believe

that we can go through. Although we are facing the world and European

champions, the best team, but we have a good team and we have to

We can do it, and we are going to And there is the man himself, he

has been in the job a long time, he has done a terrific job. He has,

and just listening to him there, he is an impressive figure. He goes

into club management after this tournament, I think a lot of bigger

clubs will be looking at him to see how he does. This Croatian team has

been terrific. What is the secret of their success so far in this

tournament? They have technical players, and the Technical game, so

they are good at keeping the ball. They have could it movement, Modric

behind a Mandzukic is the key. If he can get on it, find the wide

players, they deliver in the crosses, they have a nice threat to

them, I think. I think they will cause Spain are some problems.

that threat to be lessened by leaving out Jelavic? Possibly. But

I think Croatia were better when he he put him out on the side and he

has a midfield player doing that today. So I think this is a good

side, it is well balanced, and I think there is enough threat in

there to win the game. As always when you play against Spain, you

have to get the ball off them. We always talk about Fabregas, Torres,

Xavi, but Alonso is a player you have seen a lot off. It shows you

how good they are in possession, when he was at Liverpool,

technically he was rated as one of the best in the Premier League.

When you look at him against Iniesta, Silva... He is

particularly good in front of the Spanish defence. Not only for good

solid tackling, but the protection in front of the back four, also

when he picks it up, he can pass it. A strong header, and when he joins

in, he passes and plays. So his technical ability plus strength,

plus good in the air, plus you can give you this as well. His long

passing is exceptionally good. The killer pass to Xavi there, a

fantastic ball, when he picks it up on the edge of the box, he can hit

it from 25 yards as well. But the main thing for me is protecting

that back four. They are not a big team, the Spanish, but he is

particularly good in the air, a good tackler, very strong. And

still good in possession. How do you see it? I think it will finish

2-2 myself! Know, I can't see past the Spanish Costa Croatia are a

good side, but Spain will have too much. Do you think it will be a

draw? Now, they are a good side, but Spain are a different level.

still think Spain have so much firepower. One Spanish journalist

was asked to who their main opponents were now. Spain, he

replied. That is a game I would like to see it. But their opponents

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

have been impressive. This should before entering the arena for a

match that really matters for these players. Croatia and Spain, meeting

for the first time in a competitive international. They have met four

times in recent years, with Spain winning twice, Croatia once, with

one draw. History beckoning for Spain this summer. No side has ever

successfully defended the European Championship, and no team has won

three major tournaments in a row either. There is Luka Modric, No.

10 for Croatia, a lot resting on his shoulders tonight if Croatia

are to be successful. Spain, amid many permutations, know that a

point guarantees a quarter-final place, as would anything other than

AA win for Italy in Poznan, regardless of what happens here. As

for Croatia, they are guaranteed to go through if they win, also with a

draw of 2-2 or better. They are definitely through if Italy fail to

beat the Republic of Ireland. There are other permutations, but

hopefully it will not go that far! Tremendous atmosphere in the old

town this afternoon, those fans have now made their way to the

amber arena, a bright, shiny new stadium here. The Gdansk arena,

Holden over 40,000 people. A party atmosphere inside the ground as we

awaited this match. The players being held for some time. We can

see Gerrard Pique, mopping his brow. They are ready to enter a cauldron

of noise. 16 matches unbeaten, but a slip up tonight and the world and

defending European champions Spain could find themselves on the next

flight home. Fernando Torres says what happens to Russia is a wake-up

call. The margin for error is so small. Croatia are hoping to reach

the last eight for the third time in the last 5 euros. They are

revelling in their role as underdogs. They are hoping to fare

better than the Republic of Ireland did on this pitch. First of all,

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

internationals since losing 1-0 to Switzerland in the World Cup two

years ago. Now the Croatian Nasa Domovino" (Our Beautiful

# Oj junacka zemljo mila. # Stare slave djedovino.

# Da bi vazda sretna bila! # Mila, kano si nam slavna.

# Mila si nam ti jedina. # Mila, kuda si nam ravna.

tournament in terms of population, with just under 4.5 million, but a

country with a conveyor-belt of top-class footballing talent. Spain

won the last time they met, 2-1 in a friendly, just before the 2006

World Cup. Fernando Torres hit in injury-time winner after having had

a penalty saved earlier by Pletikosa. Slaven Bilic makes two

that worked so well in the second half against Italy, with Modric

further forward. The captain, Darijo Srna moves board, and

Rakitic is back in central midfield. Mandzukic, with three goals already,

Germany, he took charge of the 1-1 draw between Poland and Russia.

Familiar to the Spanish team, having taken charge of the first

leg of last year's Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and

Barcelona, and the recent Europa League final between Atletico

Madrid and Athletic Bilbao. Del Bosque names an unchanged starting

Busquets suffered a foot injury in the last game, but a scan revealed

no damage. Along with Torres of Chelsea, David Villa of Manchester

City also plays on the right of an of the Croatian national team.

Headed for Russia and Lokomotiv attacking talent with Jelavic

joined by Eduardo. Cesc Fabregas is on the bench for Spain, who has

already scored twice at Euro 2012, and Chelsea's Juan Matter, who has

not played at all yet. -- Mata. Conspiracy theorists were given

short shrift by both camps, including Vicente del Bosque in the

build-up to this one. A convenient 2-2 draw would eliminate Italy and

see both Spain and Croatia through. They both want to win this one,

though. Croatia, fiercely patriotic. Spain, with a golden generation of

players will stop the Spanish have drawn only two of the last 37

competitive games they've played. Both of them, ironically, against

Italy. Spain playing in the more unfamiliar colours of light and

dark blue today. Croatia in their traditional red and white

chequerboard shirts. We are almost ready to go. A final look at the

watch from the referee. All to play for and we are under way in Gdansk.

Mark Bright is alongside me. always tried to make a case for

somebody beating stage. We have seen Croatia twice and they looked

very impressive. What we would like against the Republic of Ireland in

their last match. Croatia hoping to far rather battered -- fare rather

battered -- better than the Irish did. A free-kick against Mandzukic.

He is on his own tonight up front. Yes, Jelavic... Not sure if he is

ill or not. I think they played really well together, Mandzukic and

Jelavic. Luka Modric just in behind. In the second half against Italy,

joining them as a three. Pletikosa, a picture of concentration in the

Croatian goal. Vastly experienced player. Both goalkeepers are.

Casillas is winning his 134th cap, Pletikosa is 94th. George Lucas has

struggled to start at Tottenham and finished the season at Bayer

Leverkusen. -- Vedran Corluka. I think we can expect to see Spain

having plenty of the ball if all over the pitch, Croatia, trying

to win the ball back quickly. Identical to what Spain do. Just

what Slaven Bilic wants to do. He said, we know it will be difficult,

but we have to try to keep the ball for as long as we can. The changes

that Croatia made to their line-up from a 4-4-2 two-way 4-2-3-1 in the

second half of the match against Italy. Modric was far more involved

in the play. He had more freedom and he was more influential.

played higher up the pitch. I thought it was a 4-3-3. It changed

the game tactically and gave them more possession. They were pushing

on and pressing. They made a better are seeing again, full of

confidence. Two goals in the last match against the Republic of

Ireland. Torres was waiting. Excellent. Great overlapping play.

Give and go. You can see Torres in the middle of the screen. He left

himself too much to do. First Pletikosa this time. Torres only

had the ball for 38 seconds in the last match, but in that time he

managed to get five shots away, four on target and scored twice.

depends where you get your touches! The way they play, Spain, they move

the ball around in midfield and at the back. They are so comfortable.

Jordi Alba it is a converted winger so comfortable in possession as a

full-back. You could say the same for Darijo Srna for Croatia. And

Corluka. You have to be comfortable and keep the ball. It is 24 degrees

at the moment. It has been a lovely day in Gdansk, not a cloud in the

sky, but we have been warned that a storm is expected, potentially

quite a nasty one, at around 8:30pm UK time. Perhaps we will get a

half-time firework display. Hopefully it will not interrupt

proceedings as it did in the UK -- Ukraine against France match the

One of the home-based players in the Croatian squad. Piquet did not

miss a minute in the qualifying matches for Spain, but he hasn't

always been an automatic first choice for Barcelona this season.

Not quite at his best in the last character, he creates quite a

serene atmosphere within the squad. deck on the right. Thrown from the

back of the crowd and it landed two rose from the front. It is still

with UEFA for throwing flares on the pitch in their last match

following Torres everywhere. He is one of the players on yellow card

tonight. Schildenfeld and Modric for Croatia. They would miss the

quarter-final if they were booked tonight. For Spain, Jordi Alba,

Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso and Torres on yellow cards. Crenshaw as well for

Croatia. -- Kranjcar. One area Torres can work on tonight is the

centre-back pairing. The smokers interfering with play now. The

referee has stopped it. -- smoke is interfering. They have only just

managed to put it out. Smoke is blowing across the arena. Wolfgang

Stark having a little word with Iker Casillas. I'm not too sure who

it is. Someone is pleading with his fans. We've had this in every game

that Croatia have played in. When we go to the stadium, we have to go

through X-ray machines and everything. No journalist throws a

flyer, are you searching the fans? We get them in every game. Goal-

kick to Spain. Pranjic looked pretty tidy in the second half

against Italy. He has lost his getting for quite a lot. - forward.

Good pressuring -- pressing from Croatia. The former Liverpool

player was in a good position originally, but the pass was a

I think it has been a feature of this tournament, they have not been

giving free-kicks for the slightest giving free-kicks for the slightest

of touches. Mandzukic went off injured against Italy. He picked up

a foot injury late in the game, but clearly find to start this one. --

farming. This is that incident again. Is it a trip? The referee

sees it as him kicking Gerrard 10 minutes played, no goals here

and no goals in Poznan between the Republic of Ireland and Italy. As

it stands, Spain would top the group, Croatia would also qualified

in second place. Italy would be third on three points. The Republic

of Ireland would finish on one. At the moment, Spain and Croatia are

and go. Strinic pleading his player who broke into the squad on

the back of their failure to reach the World Cup finals in South

Africa. I like what I've seen of him, he gets forward well. He

usually makes himself difficult to final couple of years ago. Pinpoint

from Spain. Almost out of reach. ago at Euro 2008. He has had a

decent tournament so far here. Conceding one group in each of

their first two matches. The 3-1 win over Ireland and the 1-1 draw

with Italy. Both of those matches from the back once again. --

against the Republic of Ireland. He completed 115 of them. Record

seemingly always in space on the right for Spain. They play with

opposition, when they play Spain, they end up running a lot further,

so even when they do get the ball, they are too tired to do anything

try to win it back as quickly as possession so far. It is so

impressive to watch, you see it on the TV, I doesn't do it justice.

The players, the way they change positions, move into space, they

off win against Turkey last year, he adds a bit of steel to the

Croatian players, just 23 years of age. Winning his 11th cap this

Rakitic. The Spanish bench are up and unimpressed. That is definitely

going to be a free kick. I think he might have been trodden on in the

middle of that. He grabs hold of his shorts, maybe he drag of the

either between Italy and the Republic of Ireland, so as it

stands, Spain and Croatia would go players. It is some atmosphere here.

And a very impressive arena, too. All the stadiums have been very

impressive. The noise seems to have been contained inside. They have

have a found their voices again after the disappointment of the

on the right-hand side where Darijo Srna is now. He is moving back to

play alongside Vukojevic in central Torres, the Croatian defenders.

They have so many passes along the deck. Fall the play that Spain have

had it, they haven't really tested a Pletikosa at all. -- for all the

little bit lucky to get away with a decent save. Just that one effort

from Iniesta early on. Didn't have ball there, Pranjic. But he had no

support. He broke forward, no support, he has got to try and hold

on to it. We can see that Sergio central defence for both club and

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

It was cynical. Way behind the ball, Something he didn't like on the

edge of the area. It was Busquets, described as colourful and

this-dissenters, the singing in the street, the camaraderie. -- going

haven't they? They have a really good one here, in Gdansk, by all

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

squeezed in at the near post. Difficult to score from that angle,

but he showed a clean pair of heels, a good turn of pace. Just trying to

drive this as hard as you can at the near post, hoping to get a

from Sergio Ramos. They pushed Croatia back and back, which allows

the full backs and centre-backs to join in if they like. No goals

either in Poznan, between Italy and the Republic of Ireland. So as it

stands, Spain would win the group ahead of Croatia. Italy and the

Republic of Ireland would go home. You can watch that game on BBC

Three and on the BBC HD channel at good position, allowing the centre-

backs to join in play, it opens up for him. Why not? This was Torres

before, a good turn of pace. He has a look, nobody there, has to have a

shot. Given the tough time that he has had in the last year or two

with Chelsea, easy to forget that he was the match-winner in the

final four years ago. His goal won game a little more. That was inch

this tournament. Four attempt on goal, three of them have ended up

though, more adventurous. So far, disciplined defensive display from

and Barcelona, threw his passing in midfield. Two of the best teams we

search your Ramos went diving in! thought it was a foul. He had to go

it alone, he had no support. It was right under the nose of the

additional assistant behind the goal at that end. Anywhere on the

pitch, I would say that was a foul, his studs are showing, it is high.

He took a big chance. Mandzukic had an injury in the first game, with a

bang on the gull. That will not have done it any good. The referee

is taking someone's name. Corluka, I'm happy that they haven't been

given anything there. -- unhappy. The referee obviously thinks that

Mandzukic is faking it. A little reminder of the yellow-card

situation. They will be wiped out Croatian fans anywhere. -- a good

side. Mandzukic, clearly struggling a little bit. I just wonder whether

he has aggravated the problem he had it coming into the game. It is

one of those, you go to shoot or cross, somebody comes to cross, you

follow through, it hits the bottom He is limping towards the halfway

here. Not far away from the half an hour mark. He lost his footing. The

first time they've really got in. A quick one-two. He just lost his

footing as he was about to strike. David Silva already on the

scoresheet for Spain in this tournament. David Villa is missing

for them, but it hasn't slowed them if he was trying to bring that down.

Gradually, Spain working their way ball by Ramos again. He used his

body. Continuing to complain to the Half an hour in, no goals here, no

Half an hour in, no goals here, no goals in Poznan between Italy and

the Republic of Ireland. As it stands, Spain would top the group

on five points, Croatia would be on got his arms open wide. He wants

against the Republic of Ireland in the first game. They were the

dominant force. Right from the word go. It helps if you score in the

third minute of the game! Really impressive as an attacking force in

that first match, but devoid of ideas in the first match against

Italy, but then improved greatly in the second half. Yet to put Spain

he might have been offside if he had continued. Great individual

skill. Agreeable to Silva. Torres feeling that injury. He doesn't

between the midfield players and full-backs pushing on and how they

work it. Always on the move, always looking for space, always making

themselves available. This team can over the last 24 hours. No hint of

menace or travel between the two sets of fans. Excellent. A lovely

city as well. We are going by King tomorrow. -- we are going out on

our bikes tomorrow. A tour of Gdansk. Going to the shipyards, the

birthplace of the Solidarity movement, some history and culture

for you tomorrow! Referee has given a free kick for ft up. -- a foot up.

That was very well timed by Schildenfeld. I think Xabi Alonso

ticket quickly. It caught everybody by surprise. Schildenfeld is known

as a player who reads the game pretty well, which helps to make up

for lack of pace, but he and Corluka are not the quickest in

central defence, but so far able to effective. -- keeps it so it's

Excellent play from Pique, coming up from the back. He is just

looking for Torres to spin into the space behind. It is tight,, but he

has got the passing capabilities to debut against Scotland last year.

Jordi Alba of Valencia. He has been turned from a left winger into an

attacking left-back by the coach there with great success. Solved a

problem for del Bosque in the international side as well.

Absolutely. Something like 778 caps, Spain. A wealth of experience on

of Slaven Bilic, the Croatian coach. Handball. Slaven Bilic will be

absolutely delighted. Coming into the last group game against Spain,

world champions. No goals conceded. There's news from Poznan in the

other match being played tonight. The Italians are now leading 1-0.

Antonio Cassano the scorer from a Antonio Cassano the scorer from a

corner kick. Italy are one up on the Irish and the group situation

has changed. Italy now top the has changed. Italy now top the

group. Croatia would go out with the Republic of Ireland bottom.

Italy are now in the dominant Italy are now in the dominant

position. Italy and Spain of the two who would go through as it

filter through. -- I ensure that news will filter through. Cassano

with his second goal of the tournament. He scored against Spain.

That was a decent game between those two great football nations,

always a bit of a classic when they meet. The Spanish national sporting

daily suggested they would not be surprised if those two met again in

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

brought the ball under control. -- in the raid. He saw Torres coming

and used his body to block him off. Not looking at the ball, looking at

Torres. Clever. I think he knows that if Torres get past him, he

will not be catching him. He can't afford to give him any space. He

has to be ahead of the game. Srna, the play are penalised for a

challenge on Sergio Busquets. -- the stadium. They might have

expected to see a goal fest. much doing in terms of goalmouth

activity at the moment. The longer the game goes on, Croatia have to

take some chances and push forward. They have to do something because

at the moment, they are going home. Italy are beating the Republic of

Ireland 1-0. If you want to watch that match, it is on BBC Three and

of the match is reflecting that at up, they got to the edge of the

Box's and there was a little gap between the midfield and the

possession. Inside the last five minutes of the first half.

Schildenfeld anticipating the pass. from Silva. So assured. A tight

space as well, just could not fall for him to get a shot in. Spain's

second corner of the game. Half- and for better off it. It will be a

free kick. Sergio Ramos is always so dangerous from set plays,

penalise this time. Corluka got up early. Just into his back. Croatia

have looked quite comfortable. of those dark clouds are gathering.

A few moments ago, that was. misery! Just keeping an eye on

things! Are you a weather man now? Just seemed odd that UEFA told

everybody we were expecting heavy storm. Even though it was 30

degrees when we left the hotel in the middle of the afternoon. Still

no real sign of the deadlock being broken between these two, but as it

stands, with Italy 1-0 up against Ireland, Italy and Spain would go

through in that order. Croatia would be going home. It is rare you

see Spain giving the ball away this easily. Full credit to Croatia for

be from Slaven Bilic at half-time? Italy are winning and we need a

result. We might throw on a substitute or he might say we have

to be more bolt in possession. It is difficult against Spain. Pranjic

covering a lot of ground. Casillas has hardly touched the ball in the

first half. Darijo Srna penalised for the challenge on Busquets. He

will get a yellow card. arguments. I think that is

persistent fouling from Srna. Lucky to get away with one earlier.

Busquets is absolutely fine. the ball into Torres. Spain goes

square and back, which they are quite good at any way. A real lack

something special, is needed, to this first half. We are going into

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

the deadlock here. Ramos is always in the last match that we saw,

Greece scored a goal very much against the run of play. His

lightning going to strike here? It is half-time in Poznan. Italy are

leading Ireland 1-0, Cassano with the goal for Italy. It is a goal

which means that at the moment, 80 Lee would top the group. -- a telly

whistle. Little to really quicken the pulse in Gdansk, a half of a

very few goalscoring opportunities. Fernando Torres, hardly having a

sight of goal. Corluka and should and impelled, marshalling the

Spanish attacks pretty well so far. -- Schildenfeld. Croatia have got

If it stays this way, Italy and Spain will go through, but Croatia

will go out. The Azeri would win the group, because they scored more

goals in games between there top three. Spain and Croatia cannot be

separated on head-to-head, but the Spanish would progress because they

are goal difference in all matches is better. Barring an Irish

equaliser, Croatia have to score, That is probably the least Blewett

I have seen Spain played. Yes, I think it is hot there, that might

be a factor, but they're not playing with the same urgency in

their passing. It is that sharpness and quickness that sets them apart.

Iniesta, who was brilliant in the last game, has hardly featured.

They are going to have to get him in the game to win this. It shows

you anyone can have an off-day. but you have to give AA huge amount

of credit to Croatia. The two wide players are working ever so hard.

They are not getting behind them at all, Spain, and Schildenfeld at the

back is probably their man of the match. He has kept Torres at bay.

Torres is sweeping off to the right hand side, trying to find something.

They have worked unbelievably hard, and they have had a couple of

chances, but they do need to score in the second half, so maybe a set

piece. We have said time and time again, no matter how good you are,

if you try and play against two banks of four, and the centre backs

come up and go back at the right time, then you have problems. The

Spanish pullbacks, -- full backs, Jordi Alba and Arbeloa, they

haven't got forward. But Schildenfeld has been sensational

at centre-back. Corluka has been good as well. Differences are

slight come but if we look at the statistics, whereas Spain normally

have over seven dissent of possession, they are just below

that, with 68%. But if you look at the chances that the Spanish have

had, few and far between it. They haven't really got in at all. As I

say, because Croatia are so well organised, when you are passing and

passing and passing, you have got to be spot on to play your way

through them. You could possibly call this a chance. This is how

much Spain have struggled in the first half. We have picked this one

expect him to score, he nearly does. There was no one in the middle.

They have had three or four moments in the box, where they have

complicated it a little, and that But we know, they have had halves

like this in the past, and just one moment, they can get a goal.

Pranjic had the best chance for Croatia. You think maybe a set

piece, but they have had a couple don't expect to get in so easy, but

the ball just bounces around, the full-back goes close to a Modric,

and so does the centre back, leaving a big space behind, and

Pranjic is away. He gets a decent strike on it, but he is never going

to score from that angle unless he You still feel that a set piece is

their best chance to score. Also in that club, they showed that

technical quality that often makes them a threat, apart from a set

piece, one piece of magic from Modric and they could be away.

about the penalty shout? I think it Difficult to tell from that angle.

There is no margin for error can maybe get it wrong... That is when

the manager turns round! Ramos nearly follows through and hit the

He had a great view of that, so it was a good tackle. If one player

looks like he might just make something happen, it is Silva.

looks the one who has that little sharpness about him, a bit of

top, he picks it up, he plays a wonderful pass. It is a cream of a

pass. The incision, ripe fruit. Iniesta has a bad patch of there! -

- a bad patch. But he is an outstanding player, he has had an

outstanding season. He has the ability to drop the shoulder and to

get away, time and time again. can't afford to give him space like

this. But that is what they do well. That was probably a better chance

than Torres's chance. If you keep him quiet, then Iniesta and Xavi

will probably start, they have so What do you think, as they wear you

down eventually, don't they? big thing is, we were talking

before, you're working so hard, can you do it for 90 minutes? If they

have got the ball, and you are chasing an getting up and down,

chasing the ball, we said before the match, not only do you get

tired, but you get disillusioned. So it is a tall order, but as

leases, one set play, and you never know. -- has Lee says. In this

spectacular summer of sport, it is Tomorrow night, England play

The heart, the pulse, the one. Good things come to those who wait, and

your time is now. Strong as an ox, Rooney, Rooney! Your name strikes

Well, it scared me! We have got highlights of England against

Ukraine tomorrow night. Let's see what has happened in the first half

football, they have conceded in the 4th minute of each half -- fall

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

they are not going to get it. The get it on target. Italy come again.

Pressure is building on that Irish It has been given. The goal is

given. Italy lead by a goal to nil. I think you would have to say that

that is in there. Cassano with the header. The keeper got hand to read,

but the ball is clearly over the Italy lead at half-time and as it

stands they are going through. I suspect there will be a lot of

twists and turns. I feel sorry for Shay Given, he makes a mistake and

does not do particularly well with the goal. He has been injured and

the goal. He has been injured and he has not had the best of

tournaments. Let's have a look at that goal. A terrific header from

Cassano. The defender should do better. He has got the wrong side

of him. It is the slightest touch. That is an art. Damien Duff has

done quite well on the line. near-post area is so important.

Gossard know just comes in behind. Just keep a man there. Easy for me

Just keep a man there. Easy for me to say. Always is. Interesting to

see how the Italians play now. We know their way! I can guarantee

what they will do! In Gdansk, let's hear the thoughts of David Moyes.

The promised storm has yet to arrive, but at the moment it is

Croatia raining on Spain's parade. The cruel world of football in this

competition where you come to the final match in this kind of

tournament, they are playing well but going out. Croatia have done a

great job in containing Spain. I think they will need to keep doing

it. I don't think they can open up too soon. The threat of losing a

goal could be too big. They need to do better in possession, Croatia,

and nullified Spain. Do you think the game as slave and a niche is to

keep the game 0-0 and continue to blunt Spain and then at the end,

they can push on and go for it? longer the game is goalless, it

will swing in Croatia's favour. Spain will know if Croatia score,

it could put them out. I think they have done a good job. Spain have

always looked threatening, David Silva has been fantastic at times.

They have not made the goalkeeper work enough. Slaven Bilic will be

delighted. More of the same and maybe in the last 15 minutes, have

a go. What do Spain do in the second half? It is a dangerous

situation for them. A goal for Croatia and their tournament is

over. It is dangerous. Spain have played some good football. Hundreds

of short passes in the middle of the pitch, a threat from Silva and

Iniesta, but not really a goal correct. They have not looked like

scoring. I think Croatia will be delighted. Spain, it is a dangerous

game, but they have quality and they've got a goal in them. Whether

it is a goal for Ireland or a single goal for one of these teams,

the group could change. STUDIO: I've got a slight feeling

we might see Fabregas quite shortly. He has scored in both Spanish games

and his unfortunate not to be starting. That was a criticism when

he was at Arsenal in his early days, that he did not score enough goals

from midfield. He has added that to his game. He will feel unlucky not

to play tonight. He has scored a lot of Barcelona. One of the many

changes they can make, Spain. They have flexibility. They have some

fantastic players. Mata, we haven't even mentioned him! The interesting

point is that Illich Maiden could call in the last game at half-time

call in the last game at half-time and he needs to make a call here.

They have got to score. We had better rejoin the commentators.

No changes made by either manager at half-time. We are under way.

Other than shoot-outs, the last time Croatia lost in a European

Championships was against England in 2004, 4-2 that day, but they

have to do something here otherwise they will be going out. But it is a

potentially tight situation for Spain as well. One moment, one

lucky bounce, one moment of genius from somebody in the Croatian side

and Spain could find themselves going home. The scenario we like to

see! They have to pull apart the centre-halves, Corluka and

Schildenfeld, get them drawn out. Pull them deeper and then they can

get one of the midfielders running through. They did not disrupt the

back four at all. Were you a little surprised that the pace of the game

in the first half? For lack of intensity? They need to quicken up

their passing. Get the ball further touches in the first half. Pranjic

again. He will get one if he's not careful of for persistent fouling.

A little bit untidy from Pranjic persistent Achilles injury that

The assistant flagged. He took his time to put his flag up. I think he

was unlucky. Strinic tried to use his body. The linesman had I think

about that for a moment or two. -- tactical change at half-time and it

improved their plate. He hasn't done anything at the moment. Modric

is playing off Mandzukic. They will try to take the game to Spain, but

try not to get picked off. A difficult balance against a side as

good as the Spanish. I don't know why he doesn't cross that on the

first chance. Mandzukic was in the penalty area. The ball was blocked.

Why take a touch? A slight delay because there are two balls on the

field. Two Tangos on the field at the moment. Another being

dispatched. It takes two to Tango! I will set them up, you knock them

away. The first corner of the second period. A free-kick to Spain.

Corluka was involved. I don't think there was much wrong with that.

far side. When you make runs like that, you create space behind you.

A reminder that the two teams that come out of Group C will play the

successful teams from England's group, which could be England,

interception from Sergio Ramos. area. They have been in fine voice

in the last couple of days in the city centre, the fans. A little

push from Jordi Alba. It looks like he has pulled a muscle. We haven't

seen much change in the tempo. If anything, Croatia have to press

David Silva. It was a clip. He is not the quickest. He uses his body.

A little clip of the ankle. He moved across Silva and drew the

foul. Such a good record on the international stage following

independence, Croatia. Quarter- finals in Euro 96 in England and

also four years ago. They also finished third in the World Cup in

1998 in France. The days of Davos sugar. -- Davor Suker. David Silva

almost picked out Torres. A little bit better from Iniesta. Quiet in

the first half. Driving at the defence. Another flare in the crowd.

Fires burning at both ends of the pitch in the stands at the moment.

The Spanish fans getting in on the Iniesta was not quite able to pick

out Xavi. David Silva is OK and Spain. Strinic is being booked for

a tackle in the middle of the park on David Silva. The referee played

along with Corluka and Srna during the first half. None of those

players were on yellows going into the match this evening. That was

the challenge. The referee quite rightly played the advantage as

assistant. Making sure the goalkeeper can see clearly. Smoke

is lingering in the air across the stadium. More fireworks off the

situation changes. The world champions would be in big trouble.

If Croatia did get one, something to hang onto... Croatia won the

first meeting between the sides, 2- 0, in 1994. Their current coach,

Slaven Bilic, played the full 90 minutes in that game. They haven't

managed to beat Spain in three Italy are beating the Republic of

Ireland 1-0 in Poznan at the moment. That means we have three teams on

That means we have three teams on five points at the top of the group.

Italy in first place, Spain's second, Croatia would go out. It

goes to a mini league between the three teams. From that mini-league,

there's not much in it, but Italy have scored one more goal in those

matches. Italy leading the way, but unravelled for Russia the other

night against Greece. Fernando Torres saying ahead of this match

that what happened to Russia was a wake-up call and a little reminder

that they need full concentration at all times because things can

change in an instant. One bad night and you're out. They have such

confidence. But so far they have play by him, winning the ball in

his own half. He has a quick look up, lacks so bored, he comes back,

Mandzukic? He has played all across the front line. He is quite quick

as well, decent touch.... Schildenfeld and Corluka are

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Iker Casillas, playing in his 4th by Xabi Alonso. Spain were nearly

undone there. That could have given Casillas a real problem.

Exceptional play by Luka Modric two. you are looking at. Modric turned

defence into attack. A great cross, corner. Disappointing from Silva.

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Most of the attempts on goal have And Fernando Torres, the player who

will depart the scene here. Navas, a useful impact player, he came on

in the World Cup final, and Dugit - - gives plenty of pure pace on the

right wing, which is what del Bosque feels they need at the

moment. This must mean that Silva enthusiastically, according to the

referee. Spain get the free kick. They haven't sparked at all in this

game so far. It is like they are opening 45 minutes against Italy. -

presumably many duels in the game No goals here. Look at this, far

post, anywhere down, back across the goal, and that is the one

opportunity they have been waiting for. For all the defensive display,

what they are looking to do is counter attack, catch Spain out at

the back. What a chance. Frustration for the Croatian fans

in the crowd, and there are a good few 1000 of them as well, making

plenty of noise in the old town of on five points. It goes to a mini-

league at the moment, and at the moment, Croatia would header out.

Italy would, by my reckoning, top that crib. It could change in an

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 89 seconds

instant. It is a very tight years there, they lost in a very

dramatic match against Turkey. They thought they had won it in extra

time, but they contrived to concede a late goal, and then lost on

penalties. Strinic concedes the here. -- Croatia are going to make

two changes here. Perisic is going to come on and so is Jelavic.

games, he has just won the Double with Borussia Dortmund. Vida is

going off, and Jelavic, who scored against the Republic of Ireland

last weekend in their first match, is going to come on. Slaven Bilic,

as he did against Italy in the week, is changing things around to try

I have been really impressed with Mandzukic and Jelavic as a pair.

But you put on a centre forward, it takes one out of your midfield. But

they have got to be a bit more adventurous, as we save. If they

score a goal, they could not Spain out. -- knock Spain out. It is a

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straight swap, Perisic is going on the central defenders, this time it

was Gerard Pique. The ball didn't quite reach Silva. Schildenfeld

again put himself in the right towards the near post. If the

referee had seen that, it would be Free kick to Croatia. As I said

before, Corluka was stooping to head it... With Jelavic and

Mandzukic, Croatia play a little bit more direct. Because of their

Everton striker. It was basic stuff, I knocked down the pitch.

physical presence as much as anything, Jelavic, causes a problem

and gives the Spanish defence is, but he had time to pull it down.

Three players in the box, that is probably the most they have had in

good with so many players in close going home. But if they win this

match, they will qualify, regardless of what happens

goals in the World Cup finals a couple of years ago. He conceded

one against Italy in the opening match here last week. He has had

nothing to do all game, when he was called into action, he did the

another change, Fabregas may be on Strinic once again. I quite like

age. It will be another corner kick, I think, for Spain. They try to put

the pressure on. There's Fabregas, he has scored twice already in this

tournament and unlucky not to be in the starting line-up. He will come

on shore leave. They played the opening game with six Nield fear --

up to head thataway. -- and that kick. A reluctance to just booted

out of play or down the pitch. this is the change and it is David

Silva, the Manchester City player, coming off. Cesc Fabregas is coming

on to replace him. Fabregas has made a very positive impression

with the opportunities he has had to play. A quick passer, a real

threat around the penalty area. Italy are beating Ireland 1-0 in

the other match. Antonio Cassano's goal in the first half just

crossing the line 10 minutes before crossing the line 10 minutes before

half-time. Because it is dollars here, at the moment it to the top

the group. -- goalless. Spain are just edging out Croatia in the

little mini league between the three, which is what it goes to

way of the ball, but it seems Spain are starting to have more of the

play in the final third. They haven't been able to play the hurt

ball, one that splits the defence or creates a shooting opportunity.

Xavi will try something different what Fernando Llorente is thinking

right now. Mata as well, just won the Champions League with Chelsea.

He did not play much in the World Cup either. You were playing

central midfielders as strikers in your position. -- you are playing.

Croatia could cause an upset here. support there? A real swashbuckling

full-back. A player with natural attacking instincts. 15 minutes to

go. Croatia are 15 minutes away from going home. Spain are less

than sparkling, for once, in some respects. They seem to be playing

within themselves. They haven't from Croatia and the world

trying to reinvent the game. Centre-forwards are the focal point

of the team and he is playing without one. Precarious. Still a

lot of attacking talent on the waste of an opportunity. Iniesta

with a little drink. -- jink. As Fabregas moved the ball to his

right, the foot -- the shot was on. He tried to create more space and

he ran into players. I don't know how many passes he has made tonight,

but Xavi is into double figures in terms of corners. This is Number

Ten. No end result so far for Spain. Cleared away once more, this time

it was Strinic, the left-back. Spain pretty much camped inside

Croatia's half. But finding them a very tough nut to crack. Croatia

looking for that one chance that can swing the game around

play. Great counter-attacking football by Croatia. They need that

goal. Sir Nick getting well forward. -- Srna. A little too high for

could have been difficult for have created the better

opportunities. Spain are far from home and dry and into the last

superb tackle by the captain of Croatia, Darijo Srna. They were

trying to walk into the net. Excellent play. It started with

Casillas. What did they want? shade over 10 minutes remaining.

Still anybody's game. They just got caught, Croatia, for the first time

in the game. Everybody was further - forward and Spain counter-

attacked. Slaven Bilic will make one final change. Eduardo, the

former Arsenal striker, preparing Vukojevic is going off. He is

turning away from goal there. That ball, as it comes towards you, you

have to take it towards the goal, that will draw the challenge from

Srna and possibly a penalty. Eduardo on. He has a really good

goalscoring level -- record, 23 goals in 49 appearances at

international level. The Brazilian- born former Arsenal man, can he

Pletikosa has not been overly stressed. No. There have been shots

from distance. Last 10 minutes. Italy lead in the Republic of

Ireland 1-0 in Poznan. Cassano's goal. Three teams on five points.

It goes to a little mini-league of the matches between them and Italy

come out on top in that at the moment. Italy would win the group,

Spain's second and Croatia, as it stands, going home with the

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that. Jordi Alba coming up for top Still 1-0 in the Italy match

against the Republic of Ireland. Italy leading the group, Spain and

It goes to a little money group between the three teams level on

five points and Italy, courtesy of five points and Italy, courtesy of

scoring one more goal, top of the pile at the moment, but it could

first touch. They have taken a chance now, Croatia. Eduardo it is

at the top of the pitch with Opportunities have been few and far

between. Mainly because they have had a protective midfield sitting

in front of the Croatian defence not allowing through balls.

Fabregas looks a threat since coming on. Spanish fans are praying

for a late goal which will stave off the nerves they are feeling at

the moment. One mistake and it would all unravel for the defending

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goalscoring opportunity. They had a golden one then the second half

which they did not take. Can they create another one in the last five

what they were looking for. The fourth official is giving Slaven

Bilic some stick because he is standing between the touchline and

the technical area. He was almost on the pitch! That is his natural

habitat, it was for so many years. He spent plenty of time in England

with Everton and West Ham United. That was Eduardo getting in in

front of Casillas. Casillas is complaining. I'm not sure what he

does wrong, he was just holding his ground, Eduardo. Corluka was

underneath the goalkeeper's nose. Or are they just doing what they

court! Spain are going through to the quarter-finals. Finally,

stadium. Hands went up for an offside. The flag never went up.

And Croatia suddenly have an awful lot to do, and not very much time

to do it in. Iniesta was not Fabregas with the initial pass, and

Navas, the substitute, with the tapping. Look at the relief and joy

on those Spanish bases. The situation now is that Spain lead

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going to be quarter-finalists this time, like four years ago. They

started so well with that 3-1 win over the Republic of Ireland. They

came back strongly in the second captured very tight here against

really. Mandzukic is the player who Jelavic. And Italy have doubled

their lead, Balotelli adding the second goal. It is leading the

in the quarter-finals. Croatia and the Republic of Ireland are going

They are going to throw everyone forward for the last hurrah.

Possibly the last minute or two of his reign as Croatia's manager,

Bilic, he has kept them in the top 10 of the world rankings at almost

for a goal here. If they could get a goal and equalise here against

Spain, it could still see them so long. 1-1 would be enough for

Croatia, if Italy win 2-0. So it is pretty sharpish. He needs good

got to be now, for Croatia. One goal and they could still be in the

competition. They have a chance here. Everybody has got to get

bored. The goalkeeper is coming up run onto the field as well! The

Italy game was finished, they have Spain. -- they took it a bit too

quickly. When it is the last minute, you don't want to give away a silly

foul. That is what Jelavic did. He doesn't want to go out like this,

Dougherty? -- does he? They need a sprinkle of magic right at the end

of this game, and it hasn't come for Croatia. The world and

defending European champions are through to the last eight, and

Slaven Bilic's reign as coach of Croatia comes to an end with a

defeat here today which means that his side got out of Euro 2012.

Jesus Navas is the man who scored the goal which won the match, and

it means Spain top the group, with Italy's second and Croatia going

So Spain go through as group winners. The players swap shirts,

Modric, who has been brilliant in this tournament, disappointed to go

home. It wasn't to be for Croatia in the end. Casillas, a couple of

vital saves from him, but in the end, Jesus was the saviour. And

these are the scenes when the Italians learned they had qualified

for the next stage. Out right joy. Buffon, who has been through it all

so many times, a goalkeeper of massive experience, he has won

pretty much everything, but not the European Championship. The Irish

put up a hell of a fight in Poznan this evening, a terrific

performance from then. -- of them. Contrast those emotions with those

of the Croatian team, disconsolate and out of Euro 2012. The

supporters of Croatia, cheering them on nevertheless. The Spanish,

relieved. It was 80 for them, knowing that a goal for Croatia

could have put them in serious That late goal for the Spanish

ensures they go through as group winners, they will play the runners

up from England's grip on Saturday. -- England's group. Croatia finish

It would have been so easy for them to go for 2-2, didn't happen.

have got to feel really sorry for Croatia, because they played so

well for so long. They gave at the Spanish -- we gave the Spanish a

big hit, but they never played as well as we expected. Croatia, they

had a good penalty shout turned down, and Rakitic had the best

chance of the game. It could have been different. It was groping

towards the end, all sorts of permutations in our minds. --

gripping. It just opened up towards the end, Croatia had two great

chances. If they had scored, I think Spain would have been out.

When it got stretched, a great piece of quality, the game was over.

Was it be biased performance we have seen in the last few years

from Spain. -- was and the finest performance. Great credit has to go

to Croatia, they didn't just get everybody behind the ball and not

attack, they needed to win the game, and they had the best chance with

the Rakitic in the second half. But the way they played at the back,

they were solid, broke when they had to, I would like to have seen

two strikers a bit earlier. It it would have been nice to have seen

balls into the box from Darijo Srna. But a great credit from them. Let's

hope if we go through tomorrow, let's hope Spain don't come out in

the next match all guns blazing! Day brought on Navas instead of the

traditional centre-forward, and ultimately, he was the guy who

but it ended up paying off. There is that gap. Fantastic delivery

from Fabregas, then a square pass. Just level, do you think? Ball of

the tournament from Fabregas. He has got swerve, check, everything

on it. But that is what they can do Spain. You don't think they are

firing on all cylinders, then that one moment of sheer quality.

bad, having someone like Fabregas on the bench. And they still have

options, people like Juan Mata, things will -- people like that.

I was the England squad, I wouldn't I thought Spain were really poor at

the back, I think there was chance after chance. The full-backs were

all over the place. This is the thing, if there is a percentage of

them going forward, then the pressure comes into the back four,

and as at least says, the two of full backs were not great. You need

a bit of luck to win the tournament, do Spain get it with this penalty

referee has about 19 bodies in front of him. That is judo! If the

referee sees it, it is a penalty kick. He didn't complain, because

he nearly scored, but it has put The Germans had a similar thing

last night with a bad enough. -- Bendtner. You see it from that

angle, he is all over him. That is a penalty kick, a stone wall

penalty kick. If they score there and going front, conceivably the

Germans are going home. Fine margins. Remarkable. But there we

go, that was probably the best Modric comes inside. Exquisite play.

As good as Fabregas's pass. I think that is better. You have to score.

This is what we are on about when we talk about the Spanish defence.

When the move starts in the middle of the park, Rakitic wins the ball.

He will just carry on his run. The He will just carry on his run. The

run from Mandzukic to pull the defenders over the other side of

the pitch... But watch the Spanish defenders getting drawn towards the

ball. What a free header that is. ball. What a free header that is.

You look at that break and say You look at that break and say

maybe they are not as organised as we think. Their defence normally...

They always have the ball! could argue that the movement is

exceptional. Great movement, Modric is fantastic. But defensively, the

full-back, Arbeloa, he had an absolute stinker. You could get him

absolute stinker. You could get him all day long. The Spanish in this

tournament and over the three games don't because they did -- as good

as they did in the World Cup and the European Championships before.

Villa is a big mess. You can tell we might play them on Saturday, we

are really putting them down! Before the start of the game, we

said they were absolutely brilliant. At one stage when we thought Spain

might be second, we thought England should finish second in the group

to avoid them. Let's try to get through! Let's get the post-match

thoughts with David Moyes. David gave his Everton and Croatian

striker Jelavic Joe Cardle before the game. He might need a bigger

one. A great tournament by Croatia and they go home. Up until the last

10 minutes, they always had a chance. The second half was always

going to be difficult for them. I thought Slaven Bilic just about got

it right. They probably made the best chances. Rakitic had a great

chance. They were open at the end and Spain got the goal. We have

seen Italy and the Czech Republic go through to the quarter-finals

having not won until their final group match and that is an

important lesson for other teams in this competition, it can go to the

wire. Up until five minutes to go, Spain could easily have gone out.

It will be important England that they do their job in the last game.

The best team went through tonight, no doubting that, but I don't think