The young Azzurri first let their lead slip, then with just 9 players left, they reignite the match thanks to a sensational free-kick by Ambrosino that takes the game into extra time. Rohl shatters the dreams of Nunziata’s team that exits with their heads held high.
It was an absolutely mad game between Italy and Germany in the quarter-finals of the Under 21 European Championships. The Italians were ahead at the 58th minute but the Germans responded first with Woltemade and then with Weiper, overturning the result and temporarily leading the match 2-1. From that point on, everything happens on the field: Gnonto is sent off and the young Azzurri are left with 10 men. In the 90th minute, Zanotti is cautioned for his protests and, after just a few seconds, he is expelled for excessive complaints. Nunziata’s team plays the final stages with two men down but a gem of a free kick from Giuseppe Ambrosino allows for a sensational draw at the expiration of the game, leading it into extra time. During extra time, Italy plays well and withstands Germany’s onslaught, but at the 117th minute, Rohl gifts his national team a spot in the semifinals. There’s also room for Pisilli, who steps onto the field at the 88th minute to attempt to aid his teammates and the squad. Bench for Baldanzi, who’s recently recovered from an injury that would have unlikely seen him play tonight.