Germany in Euro 2016 semi-final after beating Italy in thrilling penalty shootout

Germany has reached the Euro 2016 semi-finals by defeating Italy 6-5 on penalties after their quarter-final match finished 1-1.

The last penalty was scored by Germany’s Jonas Hector, which finally put an end to an extremely tough and close match. 

Germany failed to beat Italy in their previous eight major tournament games, four of which were knockout matches – most recently in the Euro 2012 semi-finals. 

Apart from an early offside goal from the Germans, the highly-anticipated match had a slow start.

However, a handball, penalty and goal from each side (marking the first goal Germany conceded since the tournament began) during the second half was enough to rile up the impatient crowd.

The game was sent to extra time and then a penalty shootout.

The last penalty was scored by Germany’s Jonas Hector, which finally put an end to an extremely tough and close match.  

In the semi-final Germany will face the winner of a France vs. Iceland match to be played on Sunday July 3.

Fans’ reactions were polarized, as some praised the game as the most exciting one out of the whole tournament, while others said they were bored and unhappy with the result.