1918: Italy midfielder Thiago Motta has picked up a yellow card for a tussle with Nikica Jelavic at a Croatia corner. At the other end, Balotelli, who has been quiet in the second half, powers a long-range shot over the crossbar.
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1912: A smoke bomb is holding up play here and it has come from the Croatia fans, landing just next to the pitch. The Croatian FA could face a fine because of the conduct of their supporters.
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1905: Modric has had two chances already after the break. His first effort dribbled through to Buffon; his second was struck much firmer but flies over the bar. It looks like the Tottenham midfielder will be playing further forward this half.
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1901: The teams are back out and the second half is under way. No substitutions yet.
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1852: Before the goal, Pletikosa made a great double save from Marchisio from close range. The goalkeeper was well beaten, though, by Pirlo, who has run the game from central midfield in the first half. He was one of Italy’s star players when the team won the 2006 World Cup and he looks to have lost none of his class six years on.
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1846: HALFTIME: Italy 1, Croatia 0
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1842: He’s been majestic all match and he’s just put the Italians ahead in the 39th minute. Andrea Pirlo curls an exquisite free kick over the wall and into the net at the near post. Pletikosa got a hand to the ball but couldn’t keep it out.
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1840: GOAL! Italy 1, Croatia 0 (Pirlo)
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