Torres double helps send Ireland out, while Italy and Croatia draw – Euro 2012 Matchday 7

Add as preferred source on Google

Group C continued today, Trapattoni’s Ireland faced a very tough task against World Champions Spain, whilst 2006 World Cup winners Italy played Croatia.

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres scored twice as Spain handed the Republic of Ireland a footballing lesson at Euro 2012.

Torres opened the scoring in the opening minutes with a powerful drive past Shay Given.

Ireland got to half-time just 1-0 down but Manchester City star David Silva scored with a simple finish after another poor start to the half for Ireland and Torres added his second with 20 minutes to go.

Ex-Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas slammed in a fourth to complete a miserable match for Ireland, who cannot now qualify for the next stage.

Mario Mandzukic scored his third goal of Euro 2012 to help earn Croatia a draw with Italy in Group C.

Andrea Pirlo put Italy into the lead with a curling free-kick after Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli was fouled just outside the area.

But an Ivan Rakitic cross from the Croatia left went over the head of Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini and Mandzukic took a touch before firing past Gianluigi Buffon.

Group C standings: