Euro 2020 Semi-Finals: Key Moments and Major Takeaways
The excitement of Euro 2020 reached fever pitch as Italy and England booked their places in the final after two riveting semi-final matches filled with drama, controversy, and emotion. With both nations desperate for European glory, their performances in the semi-finals showcased resilience, skill, and unforgettable twists. Here’s an in-depth recap of how the final was set.
Italy vs Spain: Penalty Shootout Drama Defines Classic Encounter
The clash between Italy and Spain was packed with intensity, tactical shuffles, and a nail-biting finish. Their encounter in the semi-finals served up a gripping spectacle, finishing 1-1 after extra time and ultimately decided from the penalty spot.
Match Summary and Tactical Changes
Both teams adjusted their lineups for the pivotal match—Italy out of necessity due to Spinazzola’s injury, Spain seeking fresh impact. Spain dominated early proceedings, maintaining possession and pressing high as they sought to dictate the pace. However, Italy’s defensive resilience kept them in the game.
It was Federico Chiesa who broke the deadlock with a superb counterattack finish in the 60th minute, putting Italy ahead against the run of play. Spain responded decisively, bringing on Álvaro Morata, who levelled the score just twenty minutes later, finishing from a neat pass by Dani Olmo.
Extra Time Tension and Penalty Shootout Breakdown
Thirty minutes of extra time could not separate the two sides, leading to a high-pressure penalty shootout. Below is a detailed summary of the critical shootout events:
| Penalty | Team | Player | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Italy | Locatelli | Saved |
| 2 | Spain | Dani Olmo | Missed |
| 3 | Italy | Belotti | Scored |
| 4 | Spain | Moreno | Scored |
| 5 | Italy | Bonucci | Scored |
| 6 | Spain | Thiago | Scored |
| 7 | Italy | Bernardeschi | Scored |
| 8 | Spain | Morata | Saved |
| 9 | Italy | Jorginho | Scored |
With Jorginho calmly converting the decisive penalty, Italy advanced to the final and celebrated, while a devastated Spain reflected on missed opportunities and their memorable tournament journey. This victory marked Italy’s return to a European final for the first time since 2012, with hopes of winning the title for the first time since 1968.
England vs Denmark: History Made at Wembley
At Wembley Stadium, England’s duel with Denmark proved a test of nerve, tactics, and persistence. With an electric atmosphere and over 50,000 fans, England broke a 55-year wait to reach a major final — their first since 1966.
Match Flow and Notable Incidents
Denmark lined up with a 3-4-3 formation, aiming for compactness and defensive organization. England dominated possession, continually probing the wide channels through Sterling and Saka. Despite their efforts, Denmark’s midfield tracked back relentlessly, limiting England’s clear-cut chances in the opening half-hour.
It was Denmark who struck first with Mikkel Damsgaard’s stunning free kick in the 30th minute, marking the first direct free kick goal of the tournament and the first goal conceded by England in the competition. England responded quickly: a dangerous cross from Saka led to an own goal by Danish captain Simon Kjær while under pressure from Sterling.
Decisive Moments and Controversy in Extra Time
With the score locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the game moved into extra time where the pivotal moment arrived. In the 104th minute, Raheem Sterling’s determined run drew a controversial penalty — some argued the contact was minimal — but the referee’s decision stood. Harry Kane saw his initial attempt saved, but he pounced on the rebound to score what would be the decisive goal.
Despite brave attempts from Denmark, England held on to their lead and managed the remainder of extra time confidently, securing a famous victory in front of jubilant supporters, including national icons and royalty.
The Road to the Euro 2020 Final: Italy vs England
With two emotional and hard-fought semi-finals complete, Italy and England prepared to face off on July 11, 2021. For Italy, it was a powerful statement following the disappointment of missing the 2018 World Cup. For England, it marked a breakthrough moment after decades without a major tournament final. As anticipation built for the final at Wembley, fans from both nations dreamed of lifting the Henri Delaunay Trophy.
Looking Forward
The 2020 European Championship final promised a thrilling contest between two football giants, each with their own narratives of redemption, hope, and national pride. Whether “It’s Coming Home” echoed in England or “Forza Italia” resounded across Italy, the stage was set for an unforgettable night at Wembley.
For a deep dive into tactics for the final, see tactical previews and continued coverage.
