Italy beats Iraq to finish third in men's soccer

Italy beats Iraq 1-0 to take the bronze medal at the Athens Olympics men's soccer tournament in Athens on August 27.

Italy's Alberto Gilardino headed home the winner in the goal area with a cross from Anderea Pirlo eight minutes into the game.

The Iraqi side had a few chances to score, but was disallowed by a solid defense and the brilliant performance of the Italian goalie Ivan Pelizzoli.

The Italian goal keeper shined as a hero in the 61st minute of the game when he dived up to save two shots launched by Iraq's Mahmoud Younis and Mohammed Mulla Hawar within two seconds.

It is the first medal for Italian soccer team in Olympic Games in 68 years after they claimed the gold medal in Berlin Olympics in 1936.