Italy and the Netherlands became the first European sides to book passage to the 2014 World Cup.
The Italians qualified after pulling off a tremendous win against the Czech Republic and securing the top spot in their group of qualifiers. The night did not get off to a great start for the Azzurri as they fell behind just 19 minutes in thanks to a Libor Kozak goal. The Italians monopolized possession throughout the game and created a number of chances, but could not equalize in the first half. They eventually got a quick goal in the 51st minute from Giorgio Chiellini before Mario Balotelli added the eventual winner with a 54th minute penalty conversion.
With the win, Italy has 20 points in Group B; the Czech Republic fell to fourth place with only nine points and two games remaining.
Meanwhile, the Dutch secured the top spot in Group D after topping Andorra 2-0. The Dutch held the ball for 81 percent of the game and created 23 shots on goal. However, the Oranje failed to score until the 50th minute when Robin Van Persie fired a shot from outside the box into the far corner. In the 54th minute, Van Persie added a second goal when he fired in a rebound left by the Andorra defense.
With the win the Dutch have 22 points in eight games; second place Hungary has 14 and can only acquire a maximum of 20 with two wins.
Other European teams that are on the cusp of qualification after Tuesday's matches include Belgium, Germany and Switzerland. Each of these teams can qualify with a victory in their next match.
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