Cesare Prandelli: 'We must beat Croatia'

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has insisted that his side must beat Croatia in their Euro 2012 Group C match on Thursday.

The Azzuri secured a 1-1 draw with Spain in their opening match of the tournament, while Croatia defeated Republic of Ireland 3-1 to top the group.

"We have not solved our problems, we only fielded a team which could fight for every ball. This will be a match decided by details, but also by the mentality and physical condition of the players," Prandelli told reporters.

"We have two days to prepare for this match, which I believe will be the decisive game of the group. My plan is not to make many changes but to continue with the same plan, but first I will need to have a full report on the physical condition of every player."

The winner of Group C will face the runner-up in Group D in the quarter-finals.