Croatia and Swiss play out a tense draw

13/4 – The 1st game from Group B brought two potential dark horses of the tournament. This game provided many highlights regardless of ending in a draw, with stern determination by the Swiss to protect their goal after going down to 10 men.

Croatia initiated the first half with a free kick from Nenad Bjelica landing in the arms of the Swiss Keeper and header from Ivica Mornar just going wide. The Swiss too began taking it up to Croatians with Alexander Frei and Bernt looking dangerous as they threatened the Croatian goal.

Both teams had opportunities during the half, and as half time approached it seemed it was only a matter of time before someone broke the deadlock. In the second half Switzerland's Vogel was sent off for his second offence. This changed the game from then on as a tactical reorganization followed with Croatia to dominate possession for the rest of the game and Switzerland to defend their goal with the hope for a counter attack opportunity.

Croatia persisted to attack the Swiss goal, however those effort were continuosly thwarted and by the last stage of the match, Swiss Benjamin Huggel's long range shot seemed to be the only chance to score.

Although a great game, this match had become the tournaments first draw.

Written by Peter Fiasco - reporting for UniXL

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