Euro U-21 Semi-Finals Set As Germany Edge Nine-Man Italy

The semi-final fixtures of the ongoing UEFA European U-21 Championship in Slovakia have been confirmed following the end of Sunday’s quarter-final clashes.

Germany secured their spot in the last four after a pulsating 3-2 extra-time win over Italy, who were reduced to nine men.

The Germans needed a 117th-minute thunderbolt from Merlin Röhl to break Italian resistance and avoid a penalty shootout.

It was a heroic but heartbreaking end for the Italians, who had fought valiantly despite their numerical disadvantage.

After a goalless opening half, Italy went ahead through Burnley winger Luca Koleosho, only for Germany’s Nick Woltemade to equalise.

Leeds United forward Wilfried Gnonto was sent off for a second yellow, and Nelson Weiper’s header looked to have won it for Germany.

But there was more late drama as Italy were reduced to nine men with Mattia Zanotti’s dismissal, before Giuseppe Ambrosino scored a stunning free-kick in stoppage time to force extra-time.

Germany dominated the added period and finally broke through with Röhl’s decisive strike from 20 yards.

Elsewhere, France edged Denmark 3-2 to also progress to the semi-finals. The Netherlands and England had already sealed their places earlier in the tournament.

The semi-final stage will take place on Wednesday, June 25, with two blockbuster fixtures on the cards:

UEFA Euro U-21 Semi-Final Fixtures:

Netherlands vs England

France vs Germany

Note that the winners will face off in the final on Saturday, June 28.

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