International: Bartoli scores screamer in vital Italy win

Milena Bertolini's side, quarter-finalists at the recent Women's World Cup, came from behind to get their campaign up and running - winning 3-2 in Ramat Gan.

After Italy equalised on the stroke of half-time, it was Bartoli who broke the match open with a beautiful right-footed strike from outside the box.

Another goal shortly afterwards gave the Azzurre some breathing space, despite conceding again in the dying moments of the match.

Bartoli's Roma teammate Manuela Giugliano also started the match, while Annamaria Serturini came on as an early second-half substitute - providing the pass for Bartoli's strike.

The final Roma member of the squad, Agnese Bonfantini, was an unused substitute.

"It was a tough match, we knew it was going to be a difficult place to play," Bertolini said afterwards.

"We suffered against their aggression, we dropped a bit deep - but in the end we were able to hurt them."

Italy face Georgia in their next qualification match.