Nikica Jelavic put Croatia back in front in the 43rd minute, scoring his first goal in a competitive match since he made his international debut in 2009.

"The second goal was clearly offside," Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni said.

Mandzukic added the third in the 48th after his header from Ivan Perisic's cross bounced off the post and into the net off Given's head.

Croatia nearly made it 4-1 in the 77th when Ivan Rakitic's shot curled just wide of Given's right hand post.

"Our coach showed us everything about the Irish team," Mandzukic said. "We had all the information."

The three goals were as many as Ireland had conceded in its previous 14 games.

"It was unlike us to concede the goals we conceded today," St. Ledger said. "Croatia didn't split us open. From our point of view they were disappointing goals to concede."

Bilic reinforced his defense by playing captain Darijo Srna at right back instead of midfield, and moving Vedran Corluka across to center back.