Spain survived a nervy penalty shootout versus 10-man Switzerland to progress to the semi finals of Euro 2020 .
This was Spain’s second successive match that went over 90 minutes, with La Roja barely scrapping past this time. This a real close shave as at one point they trailed in the shootout. For Switzerland it was a bitter end after another comeback which nearly saw them upset the odds yet again.
Spain took an early lead when Denis Zakaria deflected Jordi Alba’s attempt into his own net- a remarkable 10th own goal of Euros 2020. Throughout the game Spain remained on top but failed to take their chances. With the Swiss gradually growing in confidence an equalizer was never far away. A mix up at the back saw Xherdan Shaqiri pounce and score in the 68th minute.
Remo Freuler who assisted Shaqiri’s goal was then sent off for Switzerland in the 77th minute which turned the game. It was Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer and a staunch rearguard that kept Spanish attack at bay for the remainder of the tie and even held in till extra. In the shootout Switzerland led after one kick each but eventually a miss from Ruben Vargas cost them as Mikel Oyarzabal scored the last penalty to send Spain through.
Spain now head into the semi finals of Euro 2020 at Wembley. Their last two wins have seen them dig deep and show real character. They have had to battle hard to earn a semi final spot. This makes them dangerous and well equipped to face their next challenge. Though Luis Enrique’s men will have to be more clinical and efficient as now there are bigger tests ahead.
Italy battle past Belgium.
Italy continued their impressive form to record a 13th consecutive win and set up a Euro 2020 semi final against Spain at Wembley on July 6.
The high stakes encounter at Munich saw both Italy and Belgium fight it out in a tense game. The game lived up to its pre match hype with real quality on display and both teams playing some brilliant football. The tie burst into life in the last 15 minutes of the first half, when Nicolo Barella gave Italy the lead.
With the frantic pace of the game and the calibre of players on the pitch it was always going to take more than one goal to put the game to bed. Lorzenzo Insigne scored a stunning goal to double his side’s lead and seemingly end Belgium’s hopes. But with stoppage time approaching Belgium had a penalty and Romelu Lukaku halved the deficit from the spot.
Both teams had chances after the break, with Belgium going close on a number of occasions. The Belgian side looked dangerous on the break and cut inside the Italian half quite easily with the impressive Jeremy Doku causing all sorts of problems.
Lukaku had clear goal bound shot blocked by Spinazzola, which led to passionate celebrations from Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci – in a moment that underlined Italian football at its defensive best. The celebrations would prove to true as Azzuri didn’t led their lead slip till the end.
Italy will fancy their chances against a unconvincing Spanish side. They will however be cautious knowing what has happened in the tournament so far. Roberto Mancini’s men will be determined to go all the way and win a first European title since 1968. Currently on form and performance they are the best side left in the tournament and will be hoping for a return to Wembley for the final on 11th June.
