Italy (8) v (2) India

By Andrew Erlanger

ITALY has bounced back from its heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat at the hands of Nigeria with an emphatic 8-2 win over India.

The main talking point of the match was inspirational Italian captain Maximilano, who amassed a phenomenal six goals – three in each half.

The Italians dictated play from the outset, with precision passing setting up a number of scoring opportunities for the Europeans.

Maximilano scored the first goal midway through the half and the floodgates were opened.

A further three goals in as many minutes set up a more than handy 4-0 lead as half time approached.

But India refused to give up, and an excellent individual effort granted the team its first goal, and a glimmer of hope, right on the half time whistle.

Maximilano, apparently not content with his first half heroics, attacked relentlessly after play resumed.

Within the first ninety seconds he had added a staggering three goals to his tally, but he was not the only Italian to wow the crowd, with Abdoul’s fancy foot skills winning cheers from supporters of both sides.

Yet another goal to the Italians opened up an unassailable 8-1 lead with two minutes left on the clock.

The Indian’s, however, were determined to the end and managed to score a second goal before the final whistle brought a close to Italy’s impressive display.

Photos: Photoworx