Prato prevail to end on high

Italian title-holders Prato C/5 clinched third place in Group B with a battling 2-1 win against MNK Split.

Hard-earned victory
Both sides came into the match having lost their previous two games in the section, which also included hosts SL Benfica and two-time finalists Action 21 Charleroi. The match was level at 1-1 at the break, but Prato eventually prevailed in an even contest.

Fine displays
With nothing at stake except for pride, this match between the Italian and the Croatian title holders was a suprisingly tight affair. The two goalkeepers, Claudio Fiori and Aljosa Stanicic, showed their class with strong displays

Prato stronger
Prato opened the scoring through captain Andrea Piccini on the third minute with a low shot. However, Robert Jarni, the former Croatia, Real Madrid CF and Real Betis Balompié left-sided player, equalised a minute later with a thunderous low shot.

Rubei winner
In the second half, Prato scored the decisive goal in the 25th minute through Andrea Rubei after he capitalised on a Split defensive error. Split had their moments to equalise with Ivica Osibov going the closest.