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Questionable Penalty Shoots Italy to Quarterfinals

Italy made it to the next stage. That`s what the history books will say, but everyone that watched the game on Monday knows that Italy`s victory has a big question mark written all over it. Italy and Australia battled from 90 goalless minutes, with Australia demonstrating better skills. During injury-time on the 93rd minute, with seconds left to the game, the referee gave Italy a divisive penalty shot and Totti scored for Italy ending the game seconds before the overtime.

Italy played with 10 players after Marco Materazzi was handed a red card for serious foul play after 51 minutes of game. Italy was in control of the game during the first half but failed to take advantage of their clear-cut chances. After Materazzi left the game, Italy was forced to defend their goal against constant Australian attacks.

Italy will face Ukraine after the latter beat Switzerland in a penalty shootout. Both teams will meet on June 30 and the winner will play against either Argentina or Germany. Not an easy ride for Italy on their way to the final.