One mistake cost Italy, says Montolivo

Italy made just one error in the game against Croatia and they paid the price for it, says Riccardo Montolivo.

The Azzurri had taken the lead in Thursday’s game, but their Euro 2012 hopes were dented after Giorgio Chiellini misjudged a cross.

Italy made just one error in the game against Croatia and they paid the price for it, says Riccardo Montolivo.

The Azzurri had taken the lead in Thursday’s game, but their Euro 2012 hopes were dented after Giorgio Chiellini misjudged a cross.

“We knew that Croatia were a dangerous side and they confirmed that by punishing us for our only mistake,” the new Milan man noted.

“We collected another 1-1 draw, but this time the result leaves a bad taste in the mouth because we deserved to win.

“We played an excellent first half and created numerous scoring opportunities, then Croatia improved after the break even if it seemed as if we could control things.”

Italy are now third in Group C ahead of their final game against the already eliminated Republic of Ireland.

Cesare Prandelli’s side must win that and hope that the other game doesn’t end in a 2-2 draw.

“We’re still optimistic about qualification,” noted the former Fiorentina midfielder. “We believe.”