Just as Switzerland, the European Championships other host nation, Austria, crashed to an unfortunate defeat in their tournament opener. With both Martin Harnik and new Werder signing Sebastian Prödl in the starting eleven, the Austrian’s went down 0:1 to Croatia in Vienna. On the day, Croatian coach Slaven Bilic opted to do without the services of Bremen’s Ivan Klasnic.
Austria found themselves a goal behind as early as the fourth minute after Aufhauser clumsily felled Olic in the penalty area. Luka Modric took on the responsibility of the spot kick and drove home to put his side in front. With the wind in their sails, Croatia took over proceedings and never looked threatened by their hosts with the exception of an 18 meter drive (18’) and later a headed effort (27’) from centre half Prödl which raised the spirits of the home fans.
Despite their dominance, the visitors only looked dangerous again in the first period through a good chance from Mladen Petric (35’). With the half drawing to a close, the Red-Whites began to settle into the tie and put the Croatians under some pressure. Martin Harnik, with a dangerous delivery (41’) and Joachim Standfast’s header (42’) came close but ultimately failed to put their side back on level terms.
After 20 rather uninspired second half minutes, Austria suddenly sprang into action, with particular thanks to Martin Harnik. The youngster was again and again called into action to truck down the right flank and deliver cross upon stunning cross into the danger zone – but it was all to no avail. Austria will now have to hope for a win in their second group match on Thursday, 12.06.2008 against Poland in Vienna.