Just as in November 2014 at San Siro, Croatia and Italy shared the spoils (1:1). At Poljud, Mario Mandžukić and Antonio Candreva found the net, while Mandžukić failed to convert his penalty kick after seven minutes of play.
"Srna was the designated penalty taker, but he was fouled so Mandžukić took the responsibility. It happens, we hold no grudges, even more so since Mandžukić later scored our only goal", explained Croatia manager Niko Kovač.
He emphasized:
"I congratulate to all the players, from both teams. This was a very complex match, at the end of the club season, with injured players, hot weather and closed doors. Both Croatia and Italy can be happy, it was an even match, and the final score is just. I am satisfied with what my men have showed on the pitch, we would welcome anything besides defeat".
In September, Croatia will travel to Azerbaijan and Norway, and try to secure EURO 2016 berth.
"This point was earned, we fought for 90 minutes. There were ups and downs on both sides and I will not comment on details now. We want to settle everything against Azerbaijan and Norway, but that will be two difficult matches. We have to be careful, but confident, especially since Modrić and Ćorluka will be back", concluded Kovač.
