France, June 26 -- - Italy coach Milena Bertolini gave an appraisal of "world class" on her team's defense following a groundbreaking victory at the FIFA Women's World Cup here on Tuesday.

After beating China 2-0 in round of 16, Italy reached their first ever quarterfinal since the inaugural Women's World Cup in 1991.

"Our defense is world class this evening, and I have to take off my hat to them," said Bertolini, who thought the victory offered a great gift to her 53rd birthday on Monday.

Italy just conceded two goals in four matches at the 2019 edition of quadrennial competition.

"Defending is not only the case of back four. When it comes to defending, we defend as a unit. The team all think about defending together. When we defend,...