Croatia good value for point, says Corluka

Croatia’s Vedran Corluka said his side fully deserved their 1-1 draw against Italy in Thursday’s Euro 2012 contest.

A spectacular Andrea Pirlo free kick gave the Azzurri the lead just before half-time, but Mario Mandzukic’s goal – his third in the tournament – restored parity.

Corluka hailed the effect of the changes made by coach Slaven Bilic at the break and noted that the result was fair.

“We changed tactically in the second half, we were much better and deserved this goal,” the defender told Croatian TV station HRT.

“We were close to winning, but this is still a good result.

“We had some difficulties in the first half, playing two-on-two too often with Italy’s attackers, who are very good.”

Croatia remain at the top of Group C ahead of their final match against defending champions Spain.

“Spain are one of the strongest teams out there, but we believe in ourselves,” Corluka said.

“I am convinced that we will progress to the quarter-finals.”