Italy Advance To Round 16

ROME: Italy became the first team to advance to the last 16 of Euro 2020 after Manuel Locatelli scored twice and Ciro Immobile added a goal in a 3-0 win over Switzerland in Rome, just moments ago.

Roberto Mancini’s side collected six points after two games and will advance to Group A champions if they avoid defeat at the hands of second -placed Wales at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

Italian captain Giorgio Chiellini had to be sent off in the first half after injuring his thigh, four minutes after his goal in the 20th minute was disallowed by the referee for hitting his hand.

The 36 -year -old defender asked to be removed and his place was replaced by Francesco Acerbi with the captain’s armband given to Juventus team -mate Leonardo Bonucci.

Chiellini became the Italian player with the most appearances at the European Championship in 14 appearances.

The Azzurri ended the first half with a 26th minute goal from Locatelli from a pass from teammate Sassuolo Domenico Berardi.

In the second half, Locatelli added a goal in the 52nd minute, before Immobile completed the victory with a solid shot in the final minute of the game.