ITALY 2 UKRAINE 1

The Azzurri regained their footing in the Euro 2008 competition with a 2-1 victory over Ukraine, thus lessening the damage after a disappointing draw with France four days before.

On September 8, Italy had emerged scoreless and point-less from their encounter with fellow World Cup finalist France. Chances abounded, highlighted by a crossbar-grazing miss by the electric Filippo Inzaghi, but their best efforts would have no reward. Coupled with Scotland's burst of recent victories, culminating with a stunning 1-0 decision over France, the Azzurri's latest victory was essential to their remaining strong contenders to emerge as the leader of Group B.

The always-game Ukrainians entered the game at their NSC Olympiyski Stadium in Kiev in sore need of a win themselves, and having the support of a half-full stands. Safety issues surrounding the construction of a nearby shopping complex led UEFA and FIFA officials to limit the number of fans allowed to view the game. Nevertheless, this night the Italians had decided they would resume deliveries to the net in the fashion to which they have become accustomed.

It was apparent early on that Andriy Shevchenko would be an active antagonist throughout the evening, starting at Minute 3 when he hit the crossbar on a free kick. But the more productive opportunities came to Antonio DiNatale, who has served repeatedly as a welcome tonic for the Italian offensive ailments. The 29 year old Neapolitan, who toils for Udinese in Serie A, found the mark at Minute 41 to open the scoring, and then after world-class striker Shevchenko equaled at Minute 71, here came DiNatale again to seal the Italian victory at Minute 77.

Coach Roberto Donadoni was encouraged by the righting of the Azzuri ship, as he saw his club regain familiar form after their fruitless showing against the French. Reports have recently questioned the performance of Alex DelPiero and may have led to Donadoni choosing the striker combination of DiNatale and Vincenzo Iaquinta over veterans DelPiero and Inzaghi. Though noting that the later start of professional play in Italy compared to their European neighbors puts them at a slight game-fitness disadvantage in the early going, he was also quick to discount any perception of weakness in his World Champions. "When we play with this spirit," he said, "we cannot fear any opponents."

As of September 12, Italy stands second to Scotland in Group B, with 20 points to Scotland's 22 and France's 19. Ukraine's chances for advancement were dealt a serious blow by the loss, as they remain at 13 points, and now have 4 losses in the competition.