Austria gave credit to sceptics’ forecasts that they would loose all three qualifying games as they fell to an orderly Croatian side in their Group B opening game in Vienna.

Though putting in a brave performance in front of their home crowd, the hosts showed all their limits as they proved unable to equalise after Croatia’s 4th-minute penalty.

Like co-hosts Switzerland, Austria now need to raise their game and learn to take their chances if they are to make any progress in the tournament.

As for Croatia, they will fancy their chances for a shot at the trophy. Of course, they faced a downhill task in Vienna after an ugly piece of defending handed them a cheap penalty.

Still, beating the home side is never an easy ride, and Slaven Bilic’s men were easily up to the job.

Though they still have to face Germany and Poland in the group stage, Croatia must now be oozing with confidence.

After all, they did ensure the likes of Beckham, Gerrard and Rooney would take no part in this competition.