Italy (4) v (4) Finland
As competition is getting more intense here at Arena Civica, Milan Italy and Finland disputed an exemplary quarter final. It started with a quick goal for Italy 10 seconds after the referee's whistle, followed by a second goal which gave them the lead. The slippery pitch from last nights rain was making it difficult for both teams to concentrate, but Finland managed to fight back and after a close miss, which hit the pole scored for 2:1. Towards the end of the first half the Italians managed to score again with a powerful shot from midfield .
The second half kicked off with a quick goal from Finland and after a penalty they missed and a couple of opportunities they scored for 3:3 with magnificent goal which caught the Italian goalkeeper unprepared. At this time Finland was standing much better on the pitch and naturally took the lead. The last couple of minutes were very intense as Italy fought to stay in the game and scored just before the last whistle. In the shootout hat followed to determine the winner , Italy kept their calm stole the game qualifying for the semi - finals.
Silvia Kapitanova