The Euro 2020 Finals came to a thrilling end as Italy faced off against England. Given how both the teams have struggled to get silverware off-late, a win in the tournament would have been a historic event for both the countries.

The game got off to a flying start for the hosts as they took a lead within the first two minutes. With two wing backs in Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw combining, the English team looked in cruise control as they took the lead.

But towards the end of the first half, Italy regained some control and looked comfortable in possession. After creating some key chances, the Azzurri came roaring back. With their commanding center back Leonardo Bonucci putting the ball in the net around a loaded English defense, the scores were tied 1-1.

The game turned out to be a cagey affair since, as both the teams struggled to create chances. Even a 30 minute extra time period didn’t do any favors as both the defenses were impenetrable, resulting in penalties.

Italy defeat England in Euro 2020 Finals

With the game going to penalties, it was anyone’s game to win. While the Italian team stuck to its veterans to take the penalties, Gareth Southgate brought in young players Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho for the shootout.

Considering their penalty record in their respective clubs, the substitutions of Rashford and Sancho looked good on paper. The home side certainly had the edge from the start as with the score tied at 2-2, Italy missed a penalty.

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With Rashford stepping in, England had the perfect opportunity to have a 3-2 lead. But the United superstar missed his penalty. Italy fired back as they took a 3-2 lead. Southgate’s last substitution and new United winger Jadon Sancho had the chance to equalize the shootout.

But Sancho missed and a subsequent miss by Arsenal’s young star Bukayo Saka meant that Italy won the Euro 2020 tournament. This was certainly a nerve-racking finals matchup and given how tense it was, this game certainly lived up to its billing.

Fans react to England’s latest Finals loss

England might have been one of the best teams in the tournament, but they have historically struggled in penalties. It showed yet again as some questionable decision making might have cost them the Euros. Football fans all-across the world certainly went crazy seeing the Azzurri defeating the Three Lions.

England certainly will be heartbroken with the result. Given how they had performed against some of the biggest teams in the Euros, the Three Lions surely have a bright future ahead of them.

Italy meanwhile have shown incredible resolve. From not making it to the World Cup in 2018 to winning the Euros, the Italians have come a long way. Will the Azzurri win the upcoming world cup as well?