Reaction to 1-1 draw between Croatia and Italy in Group B

LEIPZIG, Germany :Following is reaction after Croatia and Italy drew 1-1 on Monday in their Euro 2024 Group B clash in Leipzig:

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti: "There are things that happen in our matches that are illogical but we need to take what the boys have in their qualities and put them in a position to express themselves at their best.

"We passed through the group stage with merit. Now we will have a chance to think about the next match (in the last-16).

"We deserved to go through tonight in terms of what we produced out there. We were a bit soft at times during the game, we did not necessarily play our best football.

"But it was hard to make it through this group. Spain are brilliant, Croatia are excellent, people are used to this type of tension. When you drop below the minimum standards in the first half, it is because we feel the bite of pressure, of how important the game is.

"Because otherwise it is not possible (to play so poorly). Thus far everything they (the players) have done has been getting better from my perspective."

Italy goalscorer Mattia Zaccagni: "Immense satisfaction, I'm excited, it's a beautiful evening. It was important to draw to qualify in second place. We did well to stay in the game with a great second half. We deserved this draw. The coach did well to create this group, we will try to repay him on the pitch."

Croatia midfielder Luka Modric: "It was very stressful, we kept battling until the end. But football was merciless with us tonight, it was cruel. It is hard when you lose like this to describe how you feel. The football Gods don't always smile on you, but we need to bounce back.

Croatia midfielder Luka Ivanusec: "I'm empty, we don't know what to say. Until the last minute, we have