Italy 2 - 0 Republic of Ireland - Balotelli Seals Italy Victory

An Antonio Cassano header and an overhead kick from Mario Balotelli was enough to secure Italy qualification to the quarter finals against ten man Ireland. It wasn't as easy a task as many expected for the Azzurri with Ireland coming straight out of the blocks from the kick off however Kevin Doyle could not make the most of his opportunity in the opening minute. Italy responded from the unexpected pressure early on with a collection of chances themselves. Thiago Motta fluffed his lines at the crucial moment after latching on to a poorly cleared Andrea Pirlo corner. The experienced Antonio di Natale had his chance to shine after giving a place in the starting XI by Cesare Prandelli and the decision looked inspired with the Udinese forward ravaging the Ireland back line and having a good chance blocked by Sean St Ledger. Di Natale was once again involved in the build up for the first Italian goal. After firing a shot from an acute angle at goal the ball was poorly dealt with and Cassano followed up with a thunderous strike. Shay Given palmed the ball away to concede a corner but Cassano was on target on the second time of asking. Ireland were unfortunate not to clear the ball to preserve the 0-0 scoreline after Damien Duff was inches away from making a crucial goal line clearance on the night of his one hundredth cap. The second half opened with a period of domination for the Italian's, looking to secure the victory to ensure their qualification to the knock out phase. Antonio Di Natale had his shot blocked after Federico Balzaretti did well on the wing to set up the forward. Claudio Marchisio also had a chance at goal but the Irish back line remained resolute against the onslaught. The final half hour of the game saw Ireland get themselves back amongst the chances. Damien Duff floated in a free kick into the Italian six yard back which met the head of Richard Dunne but the Ireland captain could not direct his effort at goal. Keith Andrews tested Buffon from distance with a stinging strike after being played in by the ever creative Duff but it wasn't enough to beat the veteran keeper. Late into the second half, Andrews was dismissed with a second yellow card and substitute Mario Balotelli shortly finished the game off with a well taken overhead kick into the Irish net. The Italians spent most of the game on top of Group C after taking the lead but a late goal from Jesus Navas for the reigning European Champions re-established the Spaniards top spot. The second place finish means that Italy will face the winners of Group D in the next round.