Italy beat Sweden 8-0 today ©Grega Valancic/Softball Europe

Hosts Italy are safely through to the next round of the Women's Softball European Championship in Bollate after claiming a victory today.

The second round robin phase of the competition continued today, where the eight remaining teams have been split into Pools E and F.

This evening's matches were cancelled due to rain, meaning this stage of the competition will now conclude tomorrow.

Defending champions Italy currently occupy top spot in Pool E after comfortably beating Sweden 8-0 today.

Great Britain are also through after recording their second consecutive win at this stage of the event, beating Greece 3-1 in the a tight affair.

Britain and Italy will meet tomorrow while the Swedes and Greece will contest a playoff to see who progresses in third place.

Rain saw this evening's play cancelled ©Grega Valancic/Softball Europe
Rain saw this evening's play cancelled ©Grega Valancic/Softball Europe

In Pool F, The Netherlands occupy top spot after winning their sole match today.

They boast a 100 per cent record after beating Spain 14-1.

The Czech Republic and Russia have both still only played one match after the postponement of their fixtures this evening.

The second phase of the tournament in Bollate is due to conclude tomorrow.

Proceedings will then go to another round robin stage as the top three teams from both pools will play against each other.

The top four countries from this will then head into the medal rounds to determine the podium places.