Euro Cup: La Roja out, Azzurri in the final

Italy outwitted Spain in penalty shoot-out and for the fourth time made through to the Euro Cup final. The four-time World Cup champion Azzurri had only one European Championship in their kits long back in 1968. They lost the finals in the year 2000 and 2012. This time they hope to win back the Euro title.

Football lovers expected a lot from Italy vs Spain semi-final on Tuesday and both teams did not disappoint them. In a pulsating 120-minute clash, they displayed a very calculated attacking game. After goalless first half, Italy took the lead running against the Spanish dominance in the 2nd half. Federico Chlesa hit the target with gorgeous curly shot in 60th minute and put the Italians ahead.

The La Rojas too were not far behind. They penetrated the Azzurri’s strong defense wall in 80th minute when Alvaro Morata netted the ball.

The game went into extra time with the score at 1-1. Both teams made all out efforts in quest of winning goal. The Spanish continuing their dominance over ball possessions posed more dangers. But the Italians backline held on and took the game to penalties where they ultimately found a way to win the game.

Italy prevailed against Spain in the shootout 4-2. Unai Simon saved Locatelli’s first spot kick giving Spain a great opportunity to go ahead. But Dani Olmo sent his penalty shot over the bar and lost the advantage. Italy converted the next three shots into goal. While Spain missed the target three times including that of Morata’s. And Jorginho slots his home to send the Azzurri through to the final.

Although Spain began the tournament with not so much promises. But they, with young bunch of players, became stronger and more resilient from pre-quarterfinals onward. They truly scintillated in the semifinal. Alas... their steam exhausted in the end and La Roja is out of the race. Now Italy awaiting to take on the winner of England vs Denmark in the final on July 12. And it is really hard to bet against the Azzurri right now.