Euro 2012: Group C Becomes Even More Crowded

Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic scores the equalizer. (Dimitar Dilkoff)

Even though they came into the day as the group leader, Croatia was the underdog to Italy. It was obvious why early. The Italians had a plethora of opportunities. Despite all of those chances, they only managed to put one in the net. In the 39th minute, Andrea Pirlo beautifully scored off a free-kick. The Italians took the 1-0 lead into halftime. Following halftime, the Croatians made some adjustments defensively and began to thrust more men forward. Their chances began to increase and improve. Finally, in the 72nd minute, the Croatians pulled level when Mario Madzukic was able to bury a tough-angle short-range shot. Both teams had opportunities down the stretch to score the winner, but it simply wasn't meant to be.

Spanish striker Fernando Torres netted two goals in 4-0 rout of Ireland (Getty Images)

After Vincente del Bosque didn't start any strikers in Spain's first group match, the Spanish coach elected to start the somewhat controversial Fernando Torres. Torres responded well and buried the game's first goal in just the 4th minute. Despite being outplayed badly, the Irish only trailed by one at halftime. However, their luck ran out in the second half. Spain made the most of their opportunities. David Silva scored early in the half. Torres followed up with his second goal of the match. Cesc Fabregas put the icing on the cake with his goal in the 83rd minute. The Spaniards dominated the Irish the whole game, and it was accurately evidenced in the final score of 4-0.

So where does this leave Group C? Let me tell you. First off, the Irish are eliminated with zero points through two matches. That means that Spain, Croatia, and Italy are battling for the top two spots to advance. Spain and Croatia are tied for the group lead with 4 points, having won and drawn one game each. Italy is the one in need of help. The Italians have just two points because of two draws so far this tournament. They do get to play the Irish in the final group match. Spain and Croatia should be a great battle as they square off in their final group game. Both of the final matches for Group C will be played on Monday. It remains to be seen which two teams will advance to the quarterfinals out of this group.