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Spain ends Irish adventure as Croatia fight back against Italy
Republic of Ireland's hopes of reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2012 came to a miserable end in Gdansk as defending world and European champions Spain produced a display of utter dominance in a 4-0 victory.
Fernando Torres celebrates his goal.
Giovanni Trapattoni's boys in green went into their second game knowing that, having lost to Croatia in their opening Group C match, they had to avoid defeat against Vicente del Bosque's mighty men.
It was always going to be mountain to climb for the Irish and in truth they never got going after Fernando Torres scored inside the opening four minutes.
David Silva, Torres, who started having been left on the bench in Spain's opening draw against Italy, and Cesc Fabregas added further goals in the second half.
The Republic could have little complaint after being outclassed, while they can now only look forward to their final game against Italy in the hope of giving their loyal fans, who sang throughout the defeat by Spain, a real reason to smile.
Spain will head into Monday night's showdown with Croatia with top spot in the group at stake as they currently head the standings on goal difference.
Meanwhile in the earlier match, Mario Mandzukic notched a second-half equaliser as Croatia drew 1-1 with Italy in Euro 2012 Group C.
Cesare Prandelli's side started brightly in Poznan, with Mario Balotelli shooting just wide in the opening three minutes, while Claudio Marchisio blasted just over after Balotelli's effort was blocked.
At the other end, Nikica Jelavic had a penalty appeal turned down by referee Howard Webb after going down in the box tussling for the ball with Giorgio Chiellini.
Balotelli then won a free-kick on the edge of the box and Andrea Pirlo hit an exquisite free-kick to net the 39th minute opener.
Croatia improved after the break, with Luka Modric having two early shots, as well as a succession of corners.
Slaven Bilic's side then drew level when Mario Mandzukic slotted in off the post from close range with 18 minutes remaining to secure a point.
Croatia now sit behind Spain, who beat the Republic of Ireland 4-0, on goal difference in Group C so they need at least a 2-2 draw to progress to the quarter-finals.
That scoreline would put Italy, who have now drawn both of their matches, out on goals scored so they know victory over Ireland is required on Monday to be in with a chance of moving through.
