Italy beat 10 men France and advanced to quarter finals. France's left back Abidal harshly fouled Italy's Luca Toni in the penalty box and received a straight red card in the 24th minute. Andrea Pirlo converted the penalty kick and Italy was up 1:0. Even though one man down France put up a good time and at times they looked as if they were going to score. Karim Benzema and Thiery Henry had a few good solo runs but Italy's defense handled them well. Just before the break Italy's Fabio Grosso almost converted off of a free kick but Gregory Couper denies him. At half time Italy was up one goal and had an extra player.
Italy turned on the style in the second half and played attractive attacking football. This opened up Italy for a few dangerous French counter attacks but luckily for Italy Benzema and Henry were a bit sloppy. In the 62nd minute Daniele de Rossi took a free kick which deflected off Thiery Henry and right into Coupet's net for Italian 2:0 lead which was also the final score. France is going home early as Italy will be facing the Spaniards that look very strong.
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In the other match, Marco van Basten knowing that Holland has won the group started the "B" squad against the tough Romanians. Surprisingly Holland, with their second team were able to set the tempo and did not allow Romanians many chances. Even though Holland was attacking they were not able to score in the first half. Knowing the Dutch that they always playing better in the second half they kept the tradition going. Holland turned on the style in the second half and scored their first goal in the 54th minute through Ajax striker Huntelaar. Robin van Persie made it 2:0 and set the final score in the 87th minute. Romanians are packing for home as Holland awaits their quarter final partner which the Russia vs Sweden match will decide. This match is on program today.
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