Italy v Croatia (Group C)
14^th June 2012, 5.00pm, BBC1, at The Municipal Stadium, Poznań

The third of six games in Group C features an improving Italian side coming up against Croatia. Although Italy are favourites to progress further through the competition than Croatia according to the bookmakers, it might well prove a tighter race than they think.

Tipsters Best Bet

Back Italy @ 21/20 with bet365

Croatia are actually ranked above Italy in the Fifa World Rankings and strictly on those, it should be Slaven Bilic’s men that make it through to the knockout stages.

When you consider that Spain are also in this group, it is likely that only one of Italy or Croatia will qualify from Group C, so the result of this match will be all important.

Italy were quite impressive during qualification for the 2012 European Championships. They conceded just two goals in the process, scoring twenty.

Cesare Prandelli has got his side playing some really attractive free flowing football and if they can continue this form during the tournament proper, the Italians could be serious contenders for the Euro 2012 crown. Top scorer during qualifying Antonio Cassano will no doubt be crucial to their chances.

Slaven Bilić’s has had a mixed time during his tenure as Croatia manager. He started very well and victory over England during qualifying for Euro 2008, causing them to be eliminated from the competition altogether, must rate as arguably his finest hour.

Since the Croatian’s creditable showing in that competition, they have struggle to recapture the same level of form. That being said, they have some very talented players in their squad and it would be no surprise to see them perform with credit at Euro 2012.

Italy v Croatia Match Odds (Prices from bet365)

Italy 21/20
Croatia 12/5
Draw 9/4

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