Two goals in four second-half minutes gave Croatia a remarkable come-from-behind victory which has left another of the World Cup favourites unsure of their future in the tournament.

Influential Italy captain Paolo Maldini remained on course to equal a World Cup record after overcoming an injury scare.

Influential Italy captain Paolo Maldini remained on course to equal a World Cup record after overcoming an injury scare.

By Liam Mackey

Ireland striker Robbie Keane today gave his country a World Cup lifeline following a dramatic injury time goal against Germany.

Miroslav Klose proved he can score against quality opposition to leave the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup hopes on the ropes at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki.

Miroslav Klose proved he can score against quality opposition to leave the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup hopes on the ropes at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki.

Mick McCarthy has admitted he is now 'bullet-proof' against the media's intrusive questioning after his experiences so far at the World Cup.

Ireland manager Mick McCarthy today paid tribute to fans who had travelled to Japan to cheer on his team in the World Cup.

Ireland face Germany at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki knowing they cannot afford to lose to Rudi Voeller’s side.

Germany coach Rudi Voeller has already intimated the pace of Damien Duff and Robbie Keane represents his greatest fear ahead of their showdown at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki.

Ireland face Germany at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki tomorrow knowing they cannot afford to lose to Rudi Voller’s side.

Germany coach Rudi Voeller has already intimated the pace of Damien Duff and Robbie Keane represents his greatest fear ahead of their showdown at the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki.

Ireland supporters in Japan have said they do not agree with reports criticising the lack of atmosphere at the World Cup, being held in Asia for the first time.

Ireland supporters in Japan have said they do not agree with reports criticising the lack of atmosphere at the World Cup, being held in Asia for the first time.

The Republic of Ireland have defended their decision not to train in the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki ahead of Wednesday's Group E clash with Germany.

The Republic of Ireland have defended their decision not to train in the Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki ahead of Wednesday's Group E clash with Germany.

The Republic of Ireland must contain the threat of a player who is being touted in some quarters as ‘‘the new Gerd Muller’’ if they are to keep their World Cup hopes alive on Wednesday.