Confederations Cup results: Italy win penalty shootout to claim third place (video highlights)

Italy finished third their Confederations’ Cup campaign by overcoming resilient Uruguay 3-2 in a penalty shootout, after the full time and extra time ended in a 2-2 draw.

The Italians have broken the deadlock in bizarre circumstances, as Diamanti’s free-kick bounced off the upright into Muslera’s back and then into the back of the net, helped by Astori in the 24th minute. Cavani leveled the game with a fine low finish in the 58th minute. Diamanti then gave the Europeans lead for the second time in the game with a brilliant free-kick from 25 yards. Cavani restored the parity several minutes later with a 35-yard set-piece, which saw Buffon rooted to the spot. Uruguayans were the better side in the dying stages of the game, but they failed to convert their chances into goals against heavy-legged Italians. The Squadra Azzurra were down to ten men in extra time, as Montolivo saw a second yellow for a professional foul on Suarez.

Italy have successfully netted three of their four penalty kicks, while veteran goalkeeper Buffon saved penalties from Forlan, Caceres and Gargano to help Italy secure the third place.