Italy's women know they need a miracle to qualify for EuroBasket 2005 but they have shown great improvement in the additional qualifying games.

Following a poor start to the tournament with a defeat against the Slovak Republic, Gianni Lambruschi's team appear to have made amends.

Last week's victory against Belgium inspired the Italians, who on Tuesday clinched a 63-61 triumph against the Slovak Republic on home soil.

"I am extremely surprised by my team's performance," said Lambruschi.

"They have shown a lot of character, pride and plenty of enthusiasm."

However, Italy were unable to turn around the 16-point deficit taken into the opening game against the Slovak Republic and they will need a favour from Belgium if they wish to continue their journey to September's EuroBasket Women.

The Italians need to beat Belgium on Friday in Aalst and hope that two days later Belgium can beat the Slovaks, who lead group B alongside Italy with four points.