Spain, Italy advances to quarter-finals

Italy earned the victory they needed against an already eliminated Republic of Ireland to go through to the last eight of Euro 2012.
Ireland started with purpose but went behind when Antonio Cassano headed in a near post Andrea Pirlo corner.
An equaliser would have knocked Italy out and their keeper Gianluigi Buffon smartly saved a Keith Andrews strike.


Andrews was sent off for a second booking before Mario Balotelli volleyed in to settle Italian nerves.
Italy still had to endure a few more anxious moments as a Croatia equaliser against Spain in the other Group C game would have meant they were out of the tournament.
But Spain won and Italy will now play the winner of Group D, which includes England.


Jesus Navas had scored the dramatic late winner as Spain produced a nervy and unconvincing performance to qualify for the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.
The Seville winger walked in Andres Iniesta's clever pass two minutes from time to break Croatia hearts and ensure the champions top Group C.  (BBC.co.uk)