England, Italy crash out of Under-21s' European C'ships

England have been eliminated from the Under-21s' European Championship after incurring a 3-1 defeat against Italy at the Ander stadium in the Czech Republic.

Italy held a commanding position in the first-half as Andrea Belotti and Marco Benassi exposed the Young Lions' defensive frailties to score two goals in quick succession.

Subsequently, Benassi netted his second goal with a header in the 72nd minute to give Italy an unassailable 3-0 lead before Nathan Redmond scored a consolation goal for England, the BBC reported.

However, Italy's victory went in vain as Sweden and Portugal played out a draw to deprive them of a berth in the semi-finals.