Source: Xinhua

06-18-2008 08:46

Special Report:   2008 European Championships

ZURICH, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Two 2-0s from Tuesday's Group C final round matches saw Italy join the Netherlands in last eight of Euro 2008.

Italian players celebrate for scoring during  Euro 2008 Group C football match against France  in Zurich, Switzerland, June 17, 2008.  Italy won 2-0. (Xinhua/Xu Jinquan)

The Italian beat depleted France 2-0 in Zurich while second-string Dutch team desposed Romania 2-0 in Bern.

Going into Tuesday's matches, the Romanians had the chance to eliminate world champions Italy and runners-up France if they could beat the already qualified Dutch team.

But two goals from Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie dashed Romania's hope of advancing and cleared the way for the Italians.

The match between Italy and France was expected to be an even and tough encounter. It turned out to be so, but just before the 10th minute.

Franck Ribery, the most active French player earlier in the match, was stretched out due to injury 10 minuts into action and that greatly lifted pressure on Italian defence.

The French team suffered another blow when full back Eric Abidal was red carded after clattering into Italian striker Luca Toni's legs from behind in the penalty area at the 25th minute.