10-man Italy beat host Sweden at the U21 European Championships

Sweden 1 - Italy 2 (European Under-21 Championships, June 19, 2009) The mouthwatering match-up between host nation Sweden and the Azzurrini opened with a fantastic goal from Mario Balotelli, the Inter striker collected possession just outside the top left hand side of the box, shimmied the ball onto his right peg and curled a beauty into the far corner. But Super Mario’s joy was short-lived as the striker saw a straight red in the 37th minute for a reckless and unnecessary tackle on Pontus Wernbloom. (First half highlights here.) Down to 10-men, Italy doubled their lead in the 53rd minute. Sebastian Giovinco was the architect, the Atomic Ant winning a free-kick under the corner flag before floating a ball onto the head of Robert Acquafresca who headed in number two. Ola Toivonen netted a late consolation for Sweden in the 89th minute.

Belarus 0 - Serbia 0 (European Under-21 Championships, June 19, 2009) Manchester United’s young winger Zoran Tosic continued to look like Serbia’s brightest spark to score, however neither side could take their chances as the match ended goalless.

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Newells Old Boys 0 - San Martin 1 (Clausura, June 19, 2009) Matias Urbano’s first half tap-in sealed the points for the visitors.

Argentinos Jrs 1 - Banfield 1 (Clausura, June 19, 2009) Gabriel Penalba’s opener for the hosts was cancelled out by Julio Eduardo Barraza after the break.