Maggio focuses on Croatia clash

Christian Maggio said Thursday’s Euro 2012 match against Croatia will be crucial for Italy’s knockout-stage hopes.

The Azzurri held Spain to a 1-1 draw in their Group C opener, and the 2006 World Cup winners will be looking to build on that in the match against Slaven Bilic’s men in Poznan.

“The Croatia match is crucial – looking at the table a win is very important for us to keep moving in the right direction,” Maggio told the official UEFA website.

“We know we are up against a very solid team. We have watched some clips and they are a team who can cause problems at any time, especially up front.

“However, I’m convinced that if we play like we did against Spain, they’ll be in trouble.”