Holders establish ten-point cushion

Holders Italy maintained their perfect record in qualifying for the 2006 UEFA European Under-21 Championship as a 2-0 win against Scotland extended Claudio Gentile's side's lead in Group 5 to ten points.

Solid Scots
At the Stadio Pietro Fortunati in Pavia, a solid Scottish side made lift difficult for the home team in the first 45 minutes, with Italy unable to break down a resolute rearguard. Rolando Bianchi failed to convert a presentable opportunity in the 12th minute, before Scotland goalkeeper Marshall produced a fine save to keep out Giampaolo Pazzini's effort a minute past the half-hour.

Decisive spell
It was a different story in the second period, however, and two goals in seven minutes finally ended Scottish hopes. On the hour, Marco Motta's right-win cross found Bianchi's header, and the striker duly collected his fourth goal of the competition. The win was secured six minutes later, Alessandro Rosina making the points safe with a long-range strike.

June games
Italy have now won all five of their games and continue their campaign at third-placed Norway on 3 June, the same day as Scotland - bottom of the table with two points from four games - play their next game, against Moldova.