England defender, Harry Maguire said the memory of losing in the 2018 World Cup semi-final is motivating the squad to succeed this time in the European Championship.

Gareth Southgate's team play Denmark in the second Euro 2020 semi-final at London's Wembley Stadium on Wednesday (July 7) and Maguire said the memory of the Croatia loss is in the players' minds and they have learned a lot in the past three years.

Maguire will be at the heart of Southgate's defense on Wednesday, but he did not know if he would be fit enough to even make the squad after an ankle injury in May.

The defender suffered ligament damage in Manchester United's May 9 Premier League match with Aston Villa and missed the rest of the domestic season and his club's Europa League final loss to Villarreal.

He missed England's warm-up games and opening two matches in Euros' group stage but returned in the final group fixture with the Czech Republic and has been alongside John Stones since then.

Asked if he feared he might have to watch the Euros on TV rather than be on the field, Maguire, who scored a header in Saturday's (July 3) 4-0 win over Ukraine, said there was uncertainty.

The Yorkshireman added he did not know when he was named in that squad when he would be ready to return to action but is pleased with the way he has coped.

The winner on Wednesday night will play either Italy or Spain in Sunday's (July 11) final. Italy and Spain play at Wembley in the first semi-final on Tuesday

England defender, Harry Maguire said the memory of losing in the 2018 World Cup semi-final is motivating the squad to succeed this time in the European Championship.

England defender, Harry Maguire said the memory of losing in the 2018 World Cup semi-final is motivating the squad to succeed this time in the European Championship. Gareth Southgate's team play Denmark in the second Euro 2020 semi-final at London's Wembley Stadium on Wednesday (July 7) and Maguire said the memory of the Croatia loss is in the players' minds and they have learned a lot in the past three years. Maguire will be at the heart of Southgate's defense on Wednesday, but he did not know if he would be fit enough to even make the squad after an ankle injury in May. The defender suffered ligament damage in Manchester United's May 9 Premier League match with Aston Villa and missed the rest of the domestic season and his club's Europa League final loss to Villarreal. He missed England's warm-up games and opening two matches in Euros' group stage but returned in the final group fixture with the Czech Republic and has been alongside John Stones since then. Asked if he feared he might have to watch the Euros on TV rather than be on the field, Maguire, who scored a header in Saturday's (July 3) 4-0 win over Ukraine, said there was uncertainty. The Yorkshireman added he did not know when he was named in that squad when he would be ready to return to action but is pleased with the way he has coped. The winner on Wednesday night will play either Italy or Spain in Sunday's (July 11) final. Italy and Spain play at Wembley in the first semi-final on Tuesday

Euro 2020: England 'motivated' not to repeat semi-final heartache

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back&nbsp;with a semi-final fixture as Spain take on Italy at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday. The two teams have been great lately and should do their absolute best in this match.&nbsp;

Italy have generally surpassed assumptions at Euro 2020 and as of now are the lone team to have dominated every one of their matches. Italy staggered Belgium by a 2-1 edge in the quarterfinals and will need a comparative outcome in this game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-possession-will-be-first-battle-against-italy-says-coach-luis-enrique-396126" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Possession will be first battle against Italy, says coach Luis Enrique</a>

Spain, then again, were made life surprisingly difficult for by Switzerland over the course of the end of the week and will need a more extensive triumph in this match. Luis Enrique's charges can sneak up all of a sudden on their day however will be tried against Italy.&nbsp;

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

Spain enjoy a peripheral upper hand over Italy to the extent the head-to-head record is concerned and have won 12 matches out of a sum of 34 games played between the two groups. Italy have overseen nine triumphs against Spain with the other 13 games finishing off with impasses.&nbsp;

The last gathering between the two European heavyweights occurred in 2017 and finished in an agreeable 3-0 triumph for Spain. Italy have shown enormous improvement under Roberto Mancini and will be resolved to getting revenge.&nbsp;

<h2>Italy versus Spain&nbsp;</h2>

Leonardo Spinazzola endured a physical issue against Belgium and has been ruled out. Alessandro Florenzi is likewise conveying a thump right now and Giovanni Di Lorenzo will probably need to venture up once more in his absence.&nbsp;

Lorenzo Insigne glanced in heavenly touch in the quarter-last and is a sure starter on the left while Federico Chiesa could once more be liked over Domenico Berardi on the conservative, where he will hope to abuse any spaces abandoned by the attack of Spanish full-back Jordi Alba.&nbsp;

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne&nbsp;

Pablo Sarabia is Spain's only worry right now and his muscle injury could imply that Dani Olmo is offered a chance in this game. The onus of safeguarding the backline and keeping his team on the front-foot when under lock and key will be on the shoulders of skipper and senior midfielder Sergio Busquets and is probably going to cooperate with Pedri and Koke against a solid Italian midfield.&nbsp;

Ferran Torres should clutch his spot on the right-wing, while Dani Olmo, who has established a serious impression so far in the Euros.&nbsp;

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Simon; Azpilicueta, Laporte, Torres, Alba; Koke, Busquets, Pedri; Torres, Morata, Olmo&nbsp;

Italy are the solitary team to have won every one of their matches so far at UEFA Euro 2020 and are on a notable unbeaten streak under Roberto Mancini right now. Spain have additionally surpassed assumptions this year and have opposed their cynics by pulling off some great outcomes at the Euros, This vows to be a mouth-watering clash.

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back with a semi-final fixture as Spain take on Italy at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday. The two teams have been great lately and should do their absolute best in this match.

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back with a semi-final fixture as Spain take on Italy at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday. The two teams have been great lately and should do their absolute best in this match. Italy have generally surpassed assumptions at Euro 2020 and as of now are the lone team to have dominated every one of their matches. Italy staggered Belgium by a 2-1 edge in the quarterfinals and will need a comparative outcome in this game. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Possession will be first battle against Italy, says coach Luis Enrique Spain, then again, were made life surprisingly difficult for by Switzerland over the course of the end of the week and will need a more extensive triumph in this match. Luis Enrique's charges can sneak up all of a sudden on their day however will be tried against Italy. Head-to-Head Spain enjoy a peripheral upper hand over Italy to the extent the head-to-head record is concerned and have won 12 matches out of a sum of 34 games played between the two groups. Italy have overseen nine triumphs against Spain with the other 13 games finishing off with impasses. The last gathering between the two European heavyweights occurred in 2017 and finished in an agreeable 3-0 triumph for Spain. Italy have shown enormous improvement under Roberto Mancini and will be resolved to getting revenge. Italy versus Spain Leonardo Spinazzola endured a physical issue against Belgium and has been ruled out. Alessandro Florenzi is likewise conveying a thump right now and Giovanni Di Lorenzo will probably need to venture up once more in his absence. Lorenzo Insigne glanced in heavenly touch in the quarter-last and is a sure starter on the left while Federico Chiesa could once more be liked over Domenico Berardi on the conservative, where he will hope to abuse any spaces abandoned by the attack of Spanish full-back Jordi Alba. Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne Pablo Sarabia is Spain's only worry right now and his muscle injury could imply that Dani Olmo is offered a chance in this game. The onus of safeguarding the backline and keeping his team on the front-foot when under lock and key will be on the shoulders of skipper and senior midfielder Sergio Busquets and is probably going to cooperate with Pedri and Koke against a solid Italian midfield. Ferran Torres should clutch his spot on the right-wing, while Dani Olmo, who has established a serious impression so far in the Euros. Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Simon; Azpilicueta, Laporte, Torres, Alba; Koke, Busquets, Pedri; Torres, Morata, Olmo Italy are the solitary team to have won every one of their matches so far at UEFA Euro 2020 and are on a notable unbeaten streak under Roberto Mancini right now. Spain have additionally surpassed assumptions this year and have opposed their cynics by pulling off some great outcomes at the Euros, This vows to be a mouth-watering clash.

Euro 2020: Italy, Spain both unbeaten teams lock horns in a semi-final clash

England have the chance to reach a first major final since their 1966 World Cup triumph when they take on Denmark at Wembley in Wednesday's Euro 2020 semi-final, but they will need to banish a history of stumbling at this stage.

Gareth Southgate's side were impressive in their 4-0 dismantling of Ukraine in Rome on Saturday, heralding a wave of euphoria in the country as media showered the team in praise.

England fans need no reminder, however, that their team have lost four major semi-finals since Alf Ramsey's team's title.

Southgate has been keen to keep the burden of history out of his team's thinking. If he needs a way to bring his players back down to earth before the semi-final, he does not have to look back far for a warning against complacency.

An England side containing ten of the current squad faced Denmark at Wembley in October in a Nations League match and lost 1-0 to a Christian Eriksen penalty.

Eriksen, who is recovering from the shocking cardiac episode he suffered as he collapsed in Denmark's opening Euro game, will not feature at Wembley of course.

But Kasper Hjulmand's side, who beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their quarter-final, will be largely the same as the one which left London with three points eight months ago.

The lessons from that game are limited by the fact that England played almost an hour with ten men after Harry Maguire was sent off in the 31st minute - but that in itself is a reminder of the way a moment of indiscipline can swing a game.

Maguire looks rock solid at the moment as part of an England defence which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament.

And with Harry Kane back to scoring form with three goals in the two knockout stage games, England look to be peaking at the right moment.

ERIKSEN FACTOR

There was, however, a similar feeling among England fans after they beat Sweden in the last eight of the World Cup three years ago in Russia only to fall to Croatia in the semi.

"Now we've replicated what we did there, but that won't be enough to fulfil the group," said Southgate, who knows that the national mood would change sharply if his team stumble at the same stage this time.

Denmark's performances in this tournament, where they have responded to the Eriksen trauma in such inspiring fashion, should also keep England focused.

The Danes got out of Group B with a rousing 4-1 win over Russia in Copenhagen before thrashing Wales 4-0 in Amsterdam.

In the quarter-final, they beat a well-organised Czech side 2-1 in the heat&nbsp;of Baku.

Much of the focus on Denmark has been on the way the team has come together and fought so well after the shocking scenes against Finland, with Southgate noting they are "riding a wave of emotion", but they have been much more than battlers.

Hjulmand's team have a clear structure and method to their play which has earned them their place in the last four.

In attack, Martin Braithwaite creates the spaces which Mikkel Damsgaard and Kasper Dolberg have exploited well and there is a threat from attacking wing-backs Jens Stryger Larsen and the excellent Joakim Maehle.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Thomas Delaney are a firm presence in the centre of midfield while the backline in front of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has been solid.

Unbeaten England though starts as clear favourites with a stronger squad and home advantage and the fear that has gripped them in previous campaigns refreshingly absent so far.

Spain or Italy, who play in Tuesday's other semi, await the winner in Sunday's final at Wembley.

England have the chance to reach a first major final since their 1966 World Cup triumph when they take on Denmark at Wembley in Wednesday's Euro 2020 semi-final, but they will need to banish a history of stumbling at this stage.

England have the chance to reach a first major final since their 1966 World Cup triumph when they take on Denmark at Wembley in Wednesday's Euro 2020 semi-final, but they will need to banish a history of stumbling at this stage. Gareth Southgate's side were impressive in their 4-0 dismantling of Ukraine in Rome on Saturday, heralding a wave of euphoria in the country as media showered the team in praise. England fans need no reminder, however, that their team have lost four major semi-finals since Alf Ramsey's team's title. Southgate has been keen to keep the burden of history out of his team's thinking. If he needs a way to bring his players back down to earth before the semi-final, he does not have to look back far for a warning against complacency. An England side containing ten of the current squad faced Denmark at Wembley in October in a Nations League match and lost 1-0 to a Christian Eriksen penalty. Eriksen, who is recovering from the shocking cardiac episode he suffered as he collapsed in Denmark's opening Euro game, will not feature at Wembley of course. But Kasper Hjulmand's side, who beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their quarter-final, will be largely the same as the one which left London with three points eight months ago. The lessons from that game are limited by the fact that England played almost an hour with ten men after Harry Maguire was sent off in the 31st minute - but that in itself is a reminder of the way a moment of indiscipline can swing a game. Maguire looks rock solid at the moment as part of an England defence which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament. And with Harry Kane back to scoring form with three goals in the two knockout stage games, England look to be peaking at the right moment. ERIKSEN FACTOR There was, however, a similar feeling among England fans after they beat Sweden in the last eight of the World Cup three years ago in Russia only to fall to Croatia in the semi. "Now we've replicated what we did there, but that won't be enough to fulfil the group," said Southgate, who knows that the national mood would change sharply if his team stumble at the same stage this time. Denmark's performances in this tournament, where they have responded to the Eriksen trauma in such inspiring fashion, should also keep England focused. The Danes got out of Group B with a rousing 4-1 win over Russia in Copenhagen before thrashing Wales 4-0 in Amsterdam. In the quarter-final, they beat a well-organised Czech side 2-1 in the heat of Baku. Much of the focus on Denmark has been on the way the team has come together and fought so well after the shocking scenes against Finland, with Southgate noting they are "riding a wave of emotion", but they have been much more than battlers. Hjulmand's team have a clear structure and method to their play which has earned them their place in the last four. In attack, Martin Braithwaite creates the spaces which Mikkel Damsgaard and Kasper Dolberg have exploited well and there is a threat from attacking wing-backs Jens Stryger Larsen and the excellent Joakim Maehle. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Thomas Delaney are a firm presence in the centre of midfield while the backline in front of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has been solid. Unbeaten England though starts as clear favourites with a stronger squad and home advantage and the fear that has gripped them in previous campaigns refreshingly absent so far. Spain or Italy, who play in Tuesday's other semi, await the winner in Sunday's final at Wembley.

Euro 2020: England aim for breakthrough, but Denmark stands determined

Ukraine enjoyed a fair slice of luck to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals and their 4-0 drubbing by England in the last eight summed up the weaknesses of a side which had benefited from a kind draw and some individual quality. 
 
The Ukrainians had squeezed into the knockout stages as the fourth-best team among third-placed finishers, having edged out Slovakia and Finland on goal difference. 
 
A laboured 2-1 win over big stage debutants North Macedonia, which came between the opening 3-2 defeat by the Netherlands and a 1-0 reverse to Austria, saw the Ukrainians book a last-16 clash with much more solid-looking Sweden. 
 
A masterclass performance from Oleksandr Zinchenko helped them beat the Swedes 2-1 as the Manchester City wing-back scored a fine opener and then set up Artem Dovbyk`s last-gasp extra time winner after Sweden had Marcus Danielson sent off. 
 
Up to that reckless tackle on an opponent which saw Danielson receive a straight red card, Sweden dominated the contest and only the woodwork coupled with some rugged defending saw a subdued Ukraine stay afloat. 
 
But they had no chance against a rampant England who could have won by a bigger margin in Rome as the gulf in class between the two teams was everywhere to be seen in Saturday`s lopsided contest. 
 
Ukraine`s manager Andriy Shevchenko, a former Serie A and Champions League winner with AC Milan as a player, pointed out that having only a handful of players plying their trade at the highest level limited the national team`s ability. 
 
"Until we have a domestic championship at a good level, we will get to this level less often," Shevchenko told a news conference after two goals from Harry Kane and one each from Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson put Ukraine to the sword. 
 
"In order to be able to compete with such players, you need to have players who play in the top five (European) leagues." 
 
Dropping a defensive strategy reliant on counterattacks for a possession-based philosophy paid dividends for Shevchenko on the road to Euro 2020, with Ukraine topping their qualifying group ahead of 2016 European champions Portugal. 
 
But their best moment of the finals was a five-minute blitz against the Dutch, when they fought back from 2-0 down before they were sunk by a soft late goal, epitomising the team`s defensive vulnerability. 
 
Clinical finishing from Roman Yaremchuk and Andriy Yarmolenko saw Ukraine through to the last 16, and Zinchenko stood out against Sweden, but that was as good as it got for Shevchenko`s outfit. 
&nbsp;

Ukraine enjoyed a fair slice of luck to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals and their 4-0 drubbing by England in the last eight summed up the weaknesses of a side which had benefited from a kind draw and some individual quality.

Ukraine enjoyed a fair slice of luck to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals and their 4-0 drubbing by England in the last eight summed up the weaknesses of a side which had benefited from a kind draw and some individual quality. The Ukrainians had squeezed into the knockout stages as the fourth-best team among third-placed finishers, having edged out Slovakia and Finland on goal difference. A laboured 2-1 win over big stage debutants North Macedonia, which came between the opening 3-2 defeat by the Netherlands and a 1-0 reverse to Austria, saw the Ukrainians book a last-16 clash with much more solid-looking Sweden. A masterclass performance from Oleksandr Zinchenko helped them beat the Swedes 2-1 as the Manchester City wing-back scored a fine opener and then set up Artem Dovbyk`s last-gasp extra time winner after Sweden had Marcus Danielson sent off. Up to that reckless tackle on an opponent which saw Danielson receive a straight red card, Sweden dominated the contest and only the woodwork coupled with some rugged defending saw a subdued Ukraine stay afloat. But they had no chance against a rampant England who could have won by a bigger margin in Rome as the gulf in class between the two teams was everywhere to be seen in Saturday`s lopsided contest. Ukraine`s manager Andriy Shevchenko, a former Serie A and Champions League winner with AC Milan as a player, pointed out that having only a handful of players plying their trade at the highest level limited the national team`s ability. "Until we have a domestic championship at a good level, we will get to this level less often," Shevchenko told a news conference after two goals from Harry Kane and one each from Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson put Ukraine to the sword. "In order to be able to compete with such players, you need to have players who play in the top five (European) leagues." Dropping a defensive strategy reliant on counterattacks for a possession-based philosophy paid dividends for Shevchenko on the road to Euro 2020, with Ukraine topping their qualifying group ahead of 2016 European champions Portugal. But their best moment of the finals was a five-minute blitz against the Dutch, when they fought back from 2-0 down before they were sunk by a soft late goal, epitomising the team`s defensive vulnerability. Clinical finishing from Roman Yaremchuk and Andriy Yarmolenko saw Ukraine through to the last 16, and Zinchenko stood out against Sweden, but that was as good as it got for Shevchenko`s outfit.

Football-Last eight Euros exit flatters modest Ukraine

The Euro 2020 is back with another significant quarterfinal fixture as England takes on Ukraine at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday. England are the better group on paper and holds the high ground going into this fixture.&nbsp;

Ukraine have been genuinely noteworthy over the previous year however persevered through their battles in the gathering stage. Andriy Shevchenko's charges can be deadly on their day and have a highlight demonstrate today.&nbsp;

England, then again, have dominated under Gareth Southgate and will be determined to benefiting as much as possible from their purple fix this year. The Three Lions dazed Germany in their last game and will need a comparative presentation in this match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Football: Germany's Toni Kroos retires from international football">Football: Germany's Toni Kroos retires from international football</a>

<h2>Head-to-Head&nbsp;</h2>

England have a decent record against Ukraine and have won four out of seven matches played between the two groups. Ukraine have overseen only one triumph against England and have a lot of work to do in front of this game. The last clash between the two groups occurred in 2013 and finished in a 0-0 impasse. Ukraine set up a vigorous front on the day and will require a comparative presentation in this match.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine versus England</h2>

Ukraine forward Artem Besedin will pass up this game after a genuine knee injury endured in the match against Sweden this week. Denys Popov is additionally out, while star man Andriy Yarmolenko just as Oleksandr Zubkov are likewise suspicious.&nbsp;

With respect to the two wing-backs, Oleksandr Karavaev and Oleksandr Zinchenko will have the onus on them to give the imagination from the flanks at whatever point Ukraine charges forward. When off the ball, the pair will rapidly drop profound to make a back five that will successfully kill off space for England to work from.

Ukraine's Probable XI (3-5-2): Bushchan, Zabarnyi, Kryvtsov, Matviyenko; Karavaev, Sydorchuk, Stepanenko, Shaparenko, Zinchenko; Yarmolenko, Yaremchuk&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell have finished their quarantine and have rejoined the crew ahead of this game. England selected a 3-4-3 formation against Germany however are probably not going to endure with the methodology against Ukraine.&nbsp;Jack Grealish improved things significantly off the seat versus Germany. In this way, if Bukayo Saka can't demonstrate his fitness on the schedule ahead of the Ukraine clash, the Aston Villa star could get an opportunity to intrigue consistently for a change.&nbsp;

Raheem Sterling and skipper Harry Kane basically pick themselves in the last three, with Mason Mount liable to be the last man in attack for England.&nbsp;Additionally, Kalvin Phillips and Harry Maguire are additionally one booking away from suspension.&nbsp;

England's Probable XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Phillips; Grealish, Mount, Sterling; Kane

<h2>Prediction&nbsp;</h2>

England will come into this match as weighty top picks, yet it ought to be intriguing to perceive how they adapt playing away from Wembley without precedent for the competition.&nbsp;

Ukraine will be a hazardous adversary for them, yet they may likewise be drained after their efforts against Sweden on Tuesday, and their guard didn't look extraordinary during the league stage.

The Euro 2020 is back with another significant quarterfinal fixture as England takes on Ukraine at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday. England are the better group on paper and holds the high ground going into this fixture.

The Euro 2020 is back with another significant quarterfinal fixture as England takes on Ukraine at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday. England are the better group on paper and holds the high ground going into this fixture. Ukraine have been genuinely noteworthy over the previous year however persevered through their battles in the gathering stage. Andriy Shevchenko's charges can be deadly on their day and have a highlight demonstrate today. England, then again, have dominated under Gareth Southgate and will be determined to benefiting as much as possible from their purple fix this year. The Three Lions dazed Germany in their last game and will need a comparative presentation in this match. ALSO READ: Football: Germany's Toni Kroos retires from international football Head-to-Head England have a decent record against Ukraine and have won four out of seven matches played between the two groups. Ukraine have overseen only one triumph against England and have a lot of work to do in front of this game. The last clash between the two groups occurred in 2013 and finished in a 0-0 impasse. Ukraine set up a vigorous front on the day and will require a comparative presentation in this match. Ukraine versus England Ukraine forward Artem Besedin will pass up this game after a genuine knee injury endured in the match against Sweden this week. Denys Popov is additionally out, while star man Andriy Yarmolenko just as Oleksandr Zubkov are likewise suspicious. With respect to the two wing-backs, Oleksandr Karavaev and Oleksandr Zinchenko will have the onus on them to give the imagination from the flanks at whatever point Ukraine charges forward. When off the ball, the pair will rapidly drop profound to make a back five that will successfully kill off space for England to work from. Ukraine's Probable XI (3-5-2): Bushchan, Zabarnyi, Kryvtsov, Matviyenko; Karavaev, Sydorchuk, Stepanenko, Shaparenko, Zinchenko; Yarmolenko, Yaremchuk Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell have finished their quarantine and have rejoined the crew ahead of this game. England selected a 3-4-3 formation against Germany however are probably not going to endure with the methodology against Ukraine. Jack Grealish improved things significantly off the seat versus Germany. In this way, if Bukayo Saka can't demonstrate his fitness on the schedule ahead of the Ukraine clash, the Aston Villa star could get an opportunity to intrigue consistently for a change. Raheem Sterling and skipper Harry Kane basically pick themselves in the last three, with Mason Mount liable to be the last man in attack for England. Additionally, Kalvin Phillips and Harry Maguire are additionally one booking away from suspension. England's Probable XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Phillips; Grealish, Mount, Sterling; Kane Prediction England will come into this match as weighty top picks, yet it ought to be intriguing to perceive how they adapt playing away from Wembley without precedent for the competition. Ukraine will be a hazardous adversary for them, yet they may likewise be drained after their efforts against Sweden on Tuesday, and their guard didn't look extraordinary during the league stage.

Euro 2020: Ukraine eye rare semi-final spot as they take on England

The UEFA Euro 2020 re-visitations of the overlay with a bunch of critical quarterfinals coordinates with this end of the week as Denmark locks horns with the Czech Republic at the Baku Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The two teams have been completely great this mid-year and have a highlight demonstrate this end of the week.&nbsp;

The Czech Republic have reliably fought at a surprisingly high level over the previous month and oversaw superb outcomes against Croatia and Scotland. The Czechs shocked the Netherlands in the Round of 16 and will be filled to the edge with certainty in front of this game.&nbsp;

Denmark, then again, persevered through a genuinely troublesome excursion in their league stage and required a splendid 4-1 triumph against Russia to arrive at the thump-outs. The Danes were electrifying against Wales and might actually be surprisingly strong contenders at Euro 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Euro 2020: Spain conquer penalty demons to reach semis against gallant Swiss">Euro 2020: Spain conquer penalty demons to reach semis against gallant Swiss</a>

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

There have been 11 past clashes between the sides previously, with the Czech Republic winning thrice, one more than Denmark. Crown jewels have been shared on six events between the different sides. Strangely, five of their last six clashes have finished in impasses, with Denmark getting a pounding 3-0 away triumph in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in March 2013.&nbsp;

<h2>Czech Republic versus Denmark&nbsp;</h2>

Yussuf Poulsen and Daniel Wass missed the Wales clash through injury, while Simon Kjaer must be subbed in the subsequent half, yet the triplet ought to be accessible for the quarter-last challenge.&nbsp;

Martin Braithwaite, Kasper Dolberg, and Mikkel Damsgaard dazzled as the front three last break and will all be certain of holding their places.&nbsp;

Probable Starting XI (3-4-3): Schmeichel; Christensen, Kjaer, Vestergaard; Wass, Hojbjerg, Delaney, Maehle; Braithwaite, Dolberg, Damsgaard.&nbsp;

Czech Republic have Jan Boril accessible after suspension and he is probably going to return at left-back.&nbsp;

Jaroslav Silhavy has choices to make somewhere else; Vladimir Darida and Jakub Jankto were named on the seat against the Netherlands however could supplant Antonin Barak and Petr Sevcik if the lead trainer picks against keeping a triumphant formula.&nbsp;

Protectively, Denmark have&nbsp;no motivation to dabble with the back three of Andreas Christensen, Jannik Vestergaard, and Simon Kjaer. The TRIO offers an optimal equilibrium of detail, and leadership, giving goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel top-class inclusion in the middle of the sticks.&nbsp;

Probable Starting XI&nbsp;(4-2-3-1): Vaclik; Coufal, Celustka, Kalas, Boril; Holes, Soucek; Masopust, Barak, Sevcik; Schick&nbsp;

<h2>Prediction</h2>

Denmark are surely the top picks heading into this encounter because of their amazing, free-scoring form. The resurgence of players like Dolberg, Braithwaite, and the predictable exhibitions from Maehle and Hojbjerg give them the edge in the defense, midfield, and assault.&nbsp;

The Czech Republic are&nbsp;a solid side that is fit for progressing to the following round. Although, they may battle to discover any solution to Denmark's attack, particularly if the resistance can stay away from any doltish errors.&nbsp;

The UEFA Euro 2020 re-visitations of the overlay with a bunch of critical quarterfinals coordinates with this end of the week as Denmark locks horns with the Czech Republic at the Baku Olympic Stadium on Saturday.

The UEFA Euro 2020 re-visitations of the overlay with a bunch of critical quarterfinals coordinates with this end of the week as Denmark locks horns with the Czech Republic at the Baku Olympic Stadium on Saturday. The two teams have been completely great this mid-year and have a highlight demonstrate this end of the week. The Czech Republic have reliably fought at a surprisingly high level over the previous month and oversaw superb outcomes against Croatia and Scotland. The Czechs shocked the Netherlands in the Round of 16 and will be filled to the edge with certainty in front of this game. Denmark, then again, persevered through a genuinely troublesome excursion in their league stage and required a splendid 4-1 triumph against Russia to arrive at the thump-outs. The Danes were electrifying against Wales and might actually be surprisingly strong contenders at Euro 2020. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Spain conquer penalty demons to reach semis against gallant Swiss Head-to-Head There have been 11 past clashes between the sides previously, with the Czech Republic winning thrice, one more than Denmark. Crown jewels have been shared on six events between the different sides. Strangely, five of their last six clashes have finished in impasses, with Denmark getting a pounding 3-0 away triumph in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in March 2013. Czech Republic versus Denmark Yussuf Poulsen and Daniel Wass missed the Wales clash through injury, while Simon Kjaer must be subbed in the subsequent half, yet the triplet ought to be accessible for the quarter-last challenge. Martin Braithwaite, Kasper Dolberg, and Mikkel Damsgaard dazzled as the front three last break and will all be certain of holding their places. Probable Starting XI (3-4-3): Schmeichel; Christensen, Kjaer, Vestergaard; Wass, Hojbjerg, Delaney, Maehle; Braithwaite, Dolberg, Damsgaard. Czech Republic have Jan Boril accessible after suspension and he is probably going to return at left-back. Jaroslav Silhavy has choices to make somewhere else; Vladimir Darida and Jakub Jankto were named on the seat against the Netherlands however could supplant Antonin Barak and Petr Sevcik if the lead trainer picks against keeping a triumphant formula. Protectively, Denmark have no motivation to dabble with the back three of Andreas Christensen, Jannik Vestergaard, and Simon Kjaer. The TRIO offers an optimal equilibrium of detail, and leadership, giving goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel top-class inclusion in the middle of the sticks. Probable Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Vaclik; Coufal, Celustka, Kalas, Boril; Holes, Soucek; Masopust, Barak, Sevcik; Schick Prediction Denmark are surely the top picks heading into this encounter because of their amazing, free-scoring form. The resurgence of players like Dolberg, Braithwaite, and the predictable exhibitions from Maehle and Hojbjerg give them the edge in the defense, midfield, and assault. The Czech Republic are a solid side that is fit for progressing to the following round. Although, they may battle to discover any solution to Denmark's attack, particularly if the resistance can stay away from any doltish errors.

Euro 2020: Denmark to battle it out with Czech Republic in quarter-finals

Spain suffered more penalty jitters but squeezed past Switzerland 3-1 in an error-strewn shootout to reach the Euro 2020 semi-finals on Friday after their battling opponents clung to a 1-1 draw despite going down to ten men.

The three-times European champions' keeper Unai Simon saved from Switzerland's Manuel Akanji and Fabian Schar while Ruben Vargas hammered his shot over the bar.

Spain's Sergio Busquets and Rodri squandered their kicks but Gerard Moreno and Dani Olmo converted, leaving it for Mikel Oyarzabal to strike the decisive spot-kick in St Petersburg.

That helped erase the memory of defeat on penalties to hosts Russia in Moscow at the 2018 World Cup, and came after a terrible run from the spot which had seen Spain miss their last five penalties, including two earlier in the tournament.

In normal time, Spain took an eighth-minute lead when a Jordi Alba strike took a heavy deflection off Daniel Zakaria and went into the net. It was the 10th own goal of the tournament - more than at all the other Euros combined.

Hoping to win their first of four quarter-final appearances in major tournaments, Switzerland deservedly levelled in the 68th minute when Xherdan Shaqiri cashed in on a mix-up in the Spain defense.

The Swiss cause was complicated by Remo Freuler being shown a straight red card in the 77th minute, yet they held on to force the extra period and somehow survived a Spain onslaught to make it to spot-kicks.

Despite beating France 5-4 on penalties in the last 16 by scoring all their kicks, only Mario Gavranovic could beat Simon and the Swiss were left heartbroken.

Spain, though, are rewarded with a trip to London's Wembley Stadium to face either Belgium or Italy and are dreaming of a first major final since winning Euro 2012.

"I knew I couldn't miss and luckily the ball went in. On the way to the spot many things went through my head but I knew exactly what to do," said Spain forward Oyarzabal.

BRAVE SWITZERLAND

While Spain prevailed, this was an extraordinary effort from Switzerland, who ended the game without their three best midfielders as Granit Xhaka was suspended, Freuler had been sent off and then Shaqiri hobbled off injured.

Swiss keeper Yann Sommer then produced more heroics to add to his superhuman efforts against France, making save after save as Spain overwhelmed their opponents in extra time but failed to score.

"I’m so proud of the team, what we’ve achieved here with the whole country behind us," said Sommer.

Both sides had overcome important psychological barriers in the last round, Spain beating Croatia 5-3 in an epic encounter to earn their first win in a major tournament knockout tie since lifting Euro 2012.

Switzerland's shootout success over France, meanwhile, which came after scoring two late goals to draw 3-3, was their first triumph in a knockout match since 1938.

But the teams seemed drained from their efforts and there was little drama in the opening hour as Switzerland nullified Spain's passing game with a relentless high press and Luis Enrique's side could only find a breakthrough with the own goal.

Switzerland became more ambitious in the second half and nearly leveled when Zakaria landed a header inches wide post. Moments later, Simon thwarted Steven Zuber at the near post.

They finally equalized when Spain defenders Aymeric Laporte and Pau Torres collided and Freuler laid the loose ball into the path of Shaqiri, who coolly slotted into the bottom corner.

But Vladimir Petkovic's side were on the back foot again when Freuler landed a high tackle on Moreno and was sent off.

Spain were utterly dominant in extra time and Moreno missed three clear efforts. Sommer made fine saves to keep out efforts from Alba and Oyarzabal while defender Ricardo Rodriguez made a brave block to thwart Marcos Llorente.

Spain brushed aside their frustration though to win the battle of nerves from the spot, keeper Simon coming out on top to wipe the memory of his disastrous gaffe in the previous game against Croatia.

"Football&nbsp;has been fair to us as we are the deserved winners," added Simon.

Spain suffered more penalty jitters but squeezed past Switzerland 3-1 in an error-strewn shootout to reach the Euro 2020 semi-finals on Friday after their battling opponents clung to a 1-1 draw despite going down to ten men.

Spain suffered more penalty jitters but squeezed past Switzerland 3-1 in an error-strewn shootout to reach the Euro 2020 semi-finals on Friday after their battling opponents clung to a 1-1 draw despite going down to ten men. The three-times European champions' keeper Unai Simon saved from Switzerland's Manuel Akanji and Fabian Schar while Ruben Vargas hammered his shot over the bar. Spain's Sergio Busquets and Rodri squandered their kicks but Gerard Moreno and Dani Olmo converted, leaving it for Mikel Oyarzabal to strike the decisive spot-kick in St Petersburg. That helped erase the memory of defeat on penalties to hosts Russia in Moscow at the 2018 World Cup, and came after a terrible run from the spot which had seen Spain miss their last five penalties, including two earlier in the tournament. In normal time, Spain took an eighth-minute lead when a Jordi Alba strike took a heavy deflection off Daniel Zakaria and went into the net. It was the 10th own goal of the tournament - more than at all the other Euros combined. Hoping to win their first of four quarter-final appearances in major tournaments, Switzerland deservedly levelled in the 68th minute when Xherdan Shaqiri cashed in on a mix-up in the Spain defense. The Swiss cause was complicated by Remo Freuler being shown a straight red card in the 77th minute, yet they held on to force the extra period and somehow survived a Spain onslaught to make it to spot-kicks. Despite beating France 5-4 on penalties in the last 16 by scoring all their kicks, only Mario Gavranovic could beat Simon and the Swiss were left heartbroken. Spain, though, are rewarded with a trip to London's Wembley Stadium to face either Belgium or Italy and are dreaming of a first major final since winning Euro 2012. "I knew I couldn't miss and luckily the ball went in. On the way to the spot many things went through my head but I knew exactly what to do," said Spain forward Oyarzabal. BRAVE SWITZERLAND While Spain prevailed, this was an extraordinary effort from Switzerland, who ended the game without their three best midfielders as Granit Xhaka was suspended, Freuler had been sent off and then Shaqiri hobbled off injured. Swiss keeper Yann Sommer then produced more heroics to add to his superhuman efforts against France, making save after save as Spain overwhelmed their opponents in extra time but failed to score. "I’m so proud of the team, what we’ve achieved here with the whole country behind us," said Sommer. Both sides had overcome important psychological barriers in the last round, Spain beating Croatia 5-3 in an epic encounter to earn their first win in a major tournament knockout tie since lifting Euro 2012. Switzerland's shootout success over France, meanwhile, which came after scoring two late goals to draw 3-3, was their first triumph in a knockout match since 1938. But the teams seemed drained from their efforts and there was little drama in the opening hour as Switzerland nullified Spain's passing game with a relentless high press and Luis Enrique's side could only find a breakthrough with the own goal. Switzerland became more ambitious in the second half and nearly leveled when Zakaria landed a header inches wide post. Moments later, Simon thwarted Steven Zuber at the near post. They finally equalized when Spain defenders Aymeric Laporte and Pau Torres collided and Freuler laid the loose ball into the path of Shaqiri, who coolly slotted into the bottom corner. But Vladimir Petkovic's side were on the back foot again when Freuler landed a high tackle on Moreno and was sent off. Spain were utterly dominant in extra time and Moreno missed three clear efforts. Sommer made fine saves to keep out efforts from Alba and Oyarzabal while defender Ricardo Rodriguez made a brave block to thwart Marcos Llorente. Spain brushed aside their frustration though to win the battle of nerves from the spot, keeper Simon coming out on top to wipe the memory of his disastrous gaffe in the previous game against Croatia. "Football has been fair to us as we are the deserved winners," added Simon.

Euro 2020: Spain conquer penalty demons to reach semis against gallant Swiss

Italy reached the Euro 2020 semi-finals with a thrilling 2-1 win over Belgium as first-half goals from Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Insigne settled a gripping encounter against the number one-ranked team in the world on Friday.

Barella fired the opener after 31 minutes before Insigne’s wonderful curling strike doubled Italy's advantage on the brink of halftime.

Romelu Lukaku pulled one back for Belgium in first-half stoppage time with a penalty but neither side could find another goal and Roberto Mancini’s exciting side held on for a 13th straight win, extending their record unbeaten run to 32 games.

"I don't think we suffered too much at any moment of the game. To beat a team like Belgium, you need a great performance from everybody and that's exactly what happened today," Mancini said.

Italy will face Spain at Wembley on Tuesday for a place in the final after setting another record by winning 15 consecutive games including European Championship qualifiers and the finals.

Luis Enrique’s Spain side squeezed past Switzerland 3-1 in a penalty shootout earlier on Friday after their battling opponents clung to a 1-1 draw after extra time despite going down to 10 men.

"We didn't have a minimum goal, we wanted to do our best. The road is still long, there are two games to go, we will see what happens," Mancini said.

"Spain? Let's enjoy this victory, then we'll think about it. Congratulations to my boys, they were very good."

MORE DISAPPOINTMENT

It was another disappointment for a talented Belgium squad lauded as a 'golden generation, but who have failed to win any trophies or reach a final at a major tournament.

"I think we tried everything to win this match. They scored a fantastic goal, but the first one may have been a mistake on our part," said Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne.

"They had more possession and the ball didn't go in for us, which is a shame. Getting eliminated is always a disappointment."

Italy started strongly when Leonardo Bonucci bundled the ball into the net after 13 minutes from a free-kick, but his celebrations were cut short when it was ruled out for offside.

Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma then produced a superb one-handed save to deny De Bruyne, who was fit enough to start after picking up an injury in Belgium's last game, before the goalkeeper tipped a Lukaku effort wide.

The Azzurri went in front when Barella lashed a shot into the bottom corner of the net after holding off two defenders in the box. It was Italy’s 10th goal of the tournament, their most at a European Championship.

Italy looked set to end the half on a high when Insigne’s outstanding curler from the edge of the area doubled their lead.

But Belgium cut the deficit three minutes later when Giovanni Di Lorenzo barged over Jeremy Doku in the box and the referee pointed to the spot, much to the dismay of the Italians, before Lukaku converted from 12 yards.

Leonardo Spinazzola performed a superb goal-line clearance to deny Lukaku an equalizer after the break, but the impressive Italy left-back's night ended in tears when he was carried off on a stretcher.

"We are really sorry for the injury to Spina, he is having a great tournament, one of the best in the tournament, we are really sad about it," Mancini said.

The lively Doku caused problems for the Azzurri defense all night and threatened a late equalizer when he cut in from the wing to lash a shot at goal, but it flew inches over the bar leaving the Italians to celebrate a famous victory.

Italy reached the Euro 2020 semi-finals with a thrilling 2-1 win over Belgium as first-half goals from Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Insigne settled a gripping encounter against the number one-ranked team in the world on Friday.

Italy reached the Euro 2020 semi-finals with a thrilling 2-1 win over Belgium as first-half goals from Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Insigne settled a gripping encounter against the number one-ranked team in the world on Friday. Barella fired the opener after 31 minutes before Insigne’s wonderful curling strike doubled Italy's advantage on the brink of halftime. Romelu Lukaku pulled one back for Belgium in first-half stoppage time with a penalty but neither side could find another goal and Roberto Mancini’s exciting side held on for a 13th straight win, extending their record unbeaten run to 32 games. "I don't think we suffered too much at any moment of the game. To beat a team like Belgium, you need a great performance from everybody and that's exactly what happened today," Mancini said. Italy will face Spain at Wembley on Tuesday for a place in the final after setting another record by winning 15 consecutive games including European Championship qualifiers and the finals. Luis Enrique’s Spain side squeezed past Switzerland 3-1 in a penalty shootout earlier on Friday after their battling opponents clung to a 1-1 draw after extra time despite going down to 10 men. "We didn't have a minimum goal, we wanted to do our best. The road is still long, there are two games to go, we will see what happens," Mancini said. "Spain? Let's enjoy this victory, then we'll think about it. Congratulations to my boys, they were very good." MORE DISAPPOINTMENT It was another disappointment for a talented Belgium squad lauded as a 'golden generation, but who have failed to win any trophies or reach a final at a major tournament. "I think we tried everything to win this match. They scored a fantastic goal, but the first one may have been a mistake on our part," said Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne. "They had more possession and the ball didn't go in for us, which is a shame. Getting eliminated is always a disappointment." Italy started strongly when Leonardo Bonucci bundled the ball into the net after 13 minutes from a free-kick, but his celebrations were cut short when it was ruled out for offside. Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma then produced a superb one-handed save to deny De Bruyne, who was fit enough to start after picking up an injury in Belgium's last game, before the goalkeeper tipped a Lukaku effort wide. The Azzurri went in front when Barella lashed a shot into the bottom corner of the net after holding off two defenders in the box. It was Italy’s 10th goal of the tournament, their most at a European Championship. Italy looked set to end the half on a high when Insigne’s outstanding curler from the edge of the area doubled their lead. But Belgium cut the deficit three minutes later when Giovanni Di Lorenzo barged over Jeremy Doku in the box and the referee pointed to the spot, much to the dismay of the Italians, before Lukaku converted from 12 yards. Leonardo Spinazzola performed a superb goal-line clearance to deny Lukaku an equalizer after the break, but the impressive Italy left-back's night ended in tears when he was carried off on a stretcher. "We are really sorry for the injury to Spina, he is having a great tournament, one of the best in the tournament, we are really sad about it," Mancini said. The lively Doku caused problems for the Azzurri defense all night and threatened a late equalizer when he cut in from the wing to lash a shot at goal, but it flew inches over the bar leaving the Italians to celebrate a famous victory.

Euro 2020: Italy edge Belgium in thriller to reach Euro 2020 semis

Swiss manager Vladimir Petkovic said his team could leave the European Championship with their heads high after being eliminated by Spain on penalty kicks in the quarter-finals on Friday in St. Petersburg.

An equalizer by captain Xherdan Shaqiri in the second half cancelled an early own goal and sent the teams to overtime, but two of the Swiss penalty kicks were stopped and one missed the target. Switzerland beat France on penalties in the round of 16.

"All these players were the heroes of the night. They would have deserved to go to the semi-finals," Petkovic told a news conference. "I cannot complain and I take my hat off to the team."

Petkovic said he could not blame Ruben Vargas for hitting his penalty over the bar in the shootout, saying instead that his player had demonstrated mental strength by even taking a spot-kick after such a long and grueling match.

Manuel Akanji's and Fabian Schar's penalty kicks were both stopped by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon.

"We had to spend all our power and energy, and our energy ran out a little," said Petkovic.

"Penalty kicks are a lottery and we lost it."

Petkovic said he had not properly seen the tackle in the 77th minute that led to the red card against Remo Freuler - who had an assist for the Switzerland equaliser - but thought it had looked more like a minor foul.

Freuler slid to win the ball back but caught Gerard Moreno in the process.

"I question it a little bit, to be honest," Petkovic said. "He (Freuler) maybe touched him a little."

Spain will face the winner of the quarter-final between Belgium and Italy in London on July 6.

Swiss manager Vladimir Petkovic said his team could leave the European Championship with their heads high after being eliminated by Spain on penalty kicks in the quarter-finals on Friday in St.

Swiss manager Vladimir Petkovic said his team could leave the European Championship with their heads high after being eliminated by Spain on penalty kicks in the quarter-finals on Friday in St. Petersburg. An equalizer by captain Xherdan Shaqiri in the second half cancelled an early own goal and sent the teams to overtime, but two of the Swiss penalty kicks were stopped and one missed the target. Switzerland beat France on penalties in the round of 16. "All these players were the heroes of the night. They would have deserved to go to the semi-finals," Petkovic told a news conference. "I cannot complain and I take my hat off to the team." Petkovic said he could not blame Ruben Vargas for hitting his penalty over the bar in the shootout, saying instead that his player had demonstrated mental strength by even taking a spot-kick after such a long and grueling match. Manuel Akanji's and Fabian Schar's penalty kicks were both stopped by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon. "We had to spend all our power and energy, and our energy ran out a little," said Petkovic. "Penalty kicks are a lottery and we lost it." Petkovic said he had not properly seen the tackle in the 77th minute that led to the red card against Remo Freuler - who had an assist for the Switzerland equaliser - but thought it had looked more like a minor foul. Freuler slid to win the ball back but caught Gerard Moreno in the process. "I question it a little bit, to be honest," Petkovic said. "He (Freuler) maybe touched him a little." Spain will face the winner of the quarter-final between Belgium and Italy in London on July 6.

Euro 2020: Switzerland exit Euro with heads high, says manager Vladimir Petkovic

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said he had played in Friday's Euro 2020 quarter-final defeat by Italy with a tear in his ankle ligaments.

Manchester City's De Bruyne was a doubt for the game after picking up the injury in the last-16 win over Portugal but said he had been determined to play.

"For me personally it has been four or five weird weeks. But I especially want to thank the medical staff," he said.

"It was a miracle that I played today because there was definitely damage to my ankle. A tear in my ligaments. But I felt the&nbsp;responsibility to play for my country today. Too bad I couldn't do more," he added in comments on UEFA.com.

The 30-year-old De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the top midfielders in the world, has had some bad luck with injuries and had to go off with a head injury playing for City in their Champions League final defeat by Chelsea last month.

Belgium were without their Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard through injury and De Bruyne acknowledged that fitness issues had plagued the team's bid to win the Euros.

"It was a difficult tournament for us, we suffered many injuries. We fought until the end. Italy was better than us in the first half, but in the second we created more chances. We could have got it to 2-2 but we didn't," he said.

"We lost against a top-notch team. We'll try to win next time, at the World Cup, but first I have to recover physically. I've had too many (injury) problems in the last few years but I've always tried to give everything for the team," he said.

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said he had played in Friday's Euro 2020 quarter-final defeat by Italy with a tear in his ankle ligaments. Manchester City's De Bruyne was a doubt for the game after picking up the injury in the last-16 win over Portugal but said he had been determined to play.

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said he had played in Friday's Euro 2020 quarter-final defeat by Italy with a tear in his ankle ligaments. Manchester City's De Bruyne was a doubt for the game after picking up the injury in the last-16 win over Portugal but said he had been determined to play. "For me personally it has been four or five weird weeks. But I especially want to thank the medical staff," he said. "It was a miracle that I played today because there was definitely damage to my ankle. A tear in my ligaments. But I felt the responsibility to play for my country today. Too bad I couldn't do more," he added in comments on UEFA.com. The 30-year-old De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the top midfielders in the world, has had some bad luck with injuries and had to go off with a head injury playing for City in their Champions League final defeat by Chelsea last month. Belgium were without their Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard through injury and De Bruyne acknowledged that fitness issues had plagued the team's bid to win the Euros. "It was a difficult tournament for us, we suffered many injuries. We fought until the end. Italy was better than us in the first half, but in the second we created more chances. We could have got it to 2-2 but we didn't," he said. "We lost against a top-notch team. We'll try to win next time, at the World Cup, but first I have to recover physically. I've had too many (injury) problems in the last few years but I've always tried to give everything for the team," he said.

Euro 2020: Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne says he played with ligament tear

Manchester United have affirmed the signing of Tom Heaton on a free exchange from Aston Villa. It is perceived Manchester United held discussions with Tom Heaton last month, and he will fill in as an understudy to David de Gea and Dean Henderson. Tom Heaton had concurred an agreement to get back to Manchester United, where he started his profession, with the 35-year-old presently signing an arrangement until 2023 with option choice of an extra year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-belgium-and-italy-bolt-horns-in-enthralling-quarterfinals-395330" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Belgium and Italy bolt horns in enthralling quarterfinals</a>

Tom Heaton said: “For me to have the opportunity to come back after spending 13 great years here as a kid, it’s an incredible feeling and I’m really, really excited to get started.

“I’m just seeing it as a fantastic opportunity as I still feel I’ve got an awful lot to give and I’ve got the bit between my teeth.

“I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running. I feel in great shape and I’m looking forward to coming in to compete with the other goalkeepers.”

Joined's present third goalkeeper, Sergio Romero, is likewise out of the agreement in the late spring and won't sign an augmentation to stay at Old Trafford. That leaves United with a spot in their crew to fill and Tom Heaton is an accomplished Premier League goalkeeper who knows the club well. As a former England player, he additionally considers a local player.&nbsp;

Tom Heaton started his profession at the club, marking as a learner in 2002 and showing up for the club's childhood groups before ultimately moving to Cardiff City on an eight-year deal.&nbsp;

There is likewise question over the eventual fate of fourth-decision goalkeeper Lee Grant, whose agreement lapses this mid-year.

Manchester United have affirmed the signing of Tom Heaton on a free exchange from Aston Villa. It is perceived Manchester United held discussions with Tom Heaton last month, and he will fill in as an understudy to David de Gea and Dean Henderson.

Manchester United have affirmed the signing of Tom Heaton on a free exchange from Aston Villa. It is perceived Manchester United held discussions with Tom Heaton last month, and he will fill in as an understudy to David de Gea and Dean Henderson. Tom Heaton had concurred an agreement to get back to Manchester United, where he started his profession, with the 35-year-old presently signing an arrangement until 2023 with option choice of an extra year. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Belgium and Italy bolt horns in enthralling quarterfinals Tom Heaton said: “For me to have the opportunity to come back after spending 13 great years here as a kid, it’s an incredible feeling and I’m really, really excited to get started. “I’m just seeing it as a fantastic opportunity as I still feel I’ve got an awful lot to give and I’ve got the bit between my teeth. “I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running. I feel in great shape and I’m looking forward to coming in to compete with the other goalkeepers.” Joined's present third goalkeeper, Sergio Romero, is likewise out of the agreement in the late spring and won't sign an augmentation to stay at Old Trafford. That leaves United with a spot in their crew to fill and Tom Heaton is an accomplished Premier League goalkeeper who knows the club well. As a former England player, he additionally considers a local player. Tom Heaton started his profession at the club, marking as a learner in 2002 and showing up for the club's childhood groups before ultimately moving to Cardiff City on an eight-year deal. There is likewise question over the eventual fate of fourth-decision goalkeeper Lee Grant, whose agreement lapses this mid-year.

Football: Manchester United re-sign an academy goalkeeper Tom Heaton

Spain made minimal changes for their Euro 2020 quarter-final with Switzerland on Friday as coach Luis Enrique restored leftback Jordi Alba and centreback Pau Torres to the side while keeping the same shape as in the 5-3 win over Croatia. 
 
Alba and Pau replaced Jose Gaya and Eric Garcia respectively. 
 
The coach kept faith in keeper Unai Simon after his gaffe to let in a backpass from Pedri against Croatia and had little reason to mess with his front three of Alvaro Morata, Ferran Torres and Pablo Sarabia, who all scored in the epic victory. 
 
Switzerland made only one change from the team which staged the shock of the tournament to come from 3-1 down to beat world champions France on penalties. Holding midfielder Denis Zakaria replaced the suspended Granit Xhaka, who produced an inspired performance in the comeback. 
 
Spain are looking to reach their first semi-final in a major tournament since winning Euro 2012 while Switzerland are playing their first quarter-final since hosting the 1954 World Cup and their first last-eight match in a Euros. 
 
Switzerland: Yann Sommer; Silvan Widmer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez; Steven Zuber, Remo Freuler, Denis Zakaria, Xherdan Shaqiri (captain); Breel Embolo, Haris Seferovic 
 
Spain: Unai Simon; Cesar Azpilicueta, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Torres, Jordi Alba; Sergio Busquets (captain), Koke, Pedri; Pablo Sarabia, Ferran Torres, Alvaro Morata

Spain made minimal changes for their Euro 2020 quarter-final with Switzerland on Friday as coach Luis Enrique restored leftback Jordi Alba and centreback Pau Torres to the side while keeping the same shape as in the 5-3 win over Croatia.

Spain made minimal changes for their Euro 2020 quarter-final with Switzerland on Friday as coach Luis Enrique restored leftback Jordi Alba and centreback Pau Torres to the side while keeping the same shape as in the 5-3 win over Croatia. Alba and Pau replaced Jose Gaya and Eric Garcia respectively. The coach kept faith in keeper Unai Simon after his gaffe to let in a backpass from Pedri against Croatia and had little reason to mess with his front three of Alvaro Morata, Ferran Torres and Pablo Sarabia, who all scored in the epic victory. Switzerland made only one change from the team which staged the shock of the tournament to come from 3-1 down to beat world champions France on penalties. Holding midfielder Denis Zakaria replaced the suspended Granit Xhaka, who produced an inspired performance in the comeback. Spain are looking to reach their first semi-final in a major tournament since winning Euro 2012 while Switzerland are playing their first quarter-final since hosting the 1954 World Cup and their first last-eight match in a Euros. Switzerland: Yann Sommer; Silvan Widmer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez; Steven Zuber, Remo Freuler, Denis Zakaria, Xherdan Shaqiri (captain); Breel Embolo, Haris Seferovic Spain: Unai Simon; Cesar Azpilicueta, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Torres, Jordi Alba; Sergio Busquets (captain), Koke, Pedri; Pablo Sarabia, Ferran Torres, Alvaro Morata

Euro 2020-Few changes for Spain and Switzerland in quarter-final clash

Toni Kroos decided to retire from international football after Germany's Round of 16 exits against England at Euro 2020. Germany had a frustrating Euro 2020 mission. Notwithstanding beating Portugal in the league stage, Die Mannschaft were poor against any semblance of France and Hungary prior to losing the Round of 16 clash against rivals England at Wembley Stadium.&nbsp;

Toni Kroos reported the choice to retire from international footfall via online media on Friday. The 31-year-old uncovered that Euro 2020 was his last significant competition regardless of the 2022 World Cup nearby. Toni Kroos' post peruses:&nbsp; "I have played for Germany 106 times. There won't be another one. I would have loved, and I gave it my all once again, to end up with 109 caps and that one big title, the European Championship title, would have come at the end. I had already made the decision to retire after this tournament. It had been clear to me for some time that I wouldn't be available for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Euro 2020: Quarter-finals swing into action as Spain takes on Switzerland">Euro 2020: Quarter-finals swing into action as Spain takes on Switzerland</a>

Toni Kroos has likewise communicated his desire to continue playing for his club with Real Madrid: "Above all, I want to concentrate fully on my goals with Real Madrid over the next few years. From now on, I'll be consciously allowing myself breaks that I haven't had as a national player for eleven years. And I also want to be more of a husband and dad to my wife and three children."

Since making his debut in 2010, Toni Kroos has proceeded to acquire 106 caps for Germany, scoring 17 goals en route. Regardless of a less than impressive display at Euro 2020, the current Real Madrid man will consistently be associated with his chivalrous exhibitions in Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning effort.

With Toni Kroos'&nbsp;retirement, Germany should depend on the up-and-coming age of midfielders in Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka to bring them through impending competitions. The Bayern Munich pair are more than capable, however, Toni Kroos' retirement actually eliminates an amazingly talented and experienced player from the Germany list.

Toni Kroos decided to retire from international football after Germany's Round of 16 exits against England at Euro 2020. Germany had a frustrating Euro 2020 mission.

Toni Kroos decided to retire from international football after Germany's Round of 16 exits against England at Euro 2020. Germany had a frustrating Euro 2020 mission. Notwithstanding beating Portugal in the league stage, Die Mannschaft were poor against any semblance of France and Hungary prior to losing the Round of 16 clash against rivals England at Wembley Stadium. Toni Kroos reported the choice to retire from international footfall via online media on Friday. The 31-year-old uncovered that Euro 2020 was his last significant competition regardless of the 2022 World Cup nearby. Toni Kroos' post peruses: "I have played for Germany 106 times. There won't be another one. I would have loved, and I gave it my all once again, to end up with 109 caps and that one big title, the European Championship title, would have come at the end. I had already made the decision to retire after this tournament. It had been clear to me for some time that I wouldn't be available for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar." ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Quarter-finals swing into action as Spain takes on Switzerland Toni Kroos has likewise communicated his desire to continue playing for his club with Real Madrid: "Above all, I want to concentrate fully on my goals with Real Madrid over the next few years. From now on, I'll be consciously allowing myself breaks that I haven't had as a national player for eleven years. And I also want to be more of a husband and dad to my wife and three children." Since making his debut in 2010, Toni Kroos has proceeded to acquire 106 caps for Germany, scoring 17 goals en route. Regardless of a less than impressive display at Euro 2020, the current Real Madrid man will consistently be associated with his chivalrous exhibitions in Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning effort. With Toni Kroos' retirement, Germany should depend on the up-and-coming age of midfielders in Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka to bring them through impending competitions. The Bayern Munich pair are more than capable, however, Toni Kroos' retirement actually eliminates an amazingly talented and experienced player from the Germany list.

Football: Germany's Toni Kroos retires from international football

England midfielder Jack Grealish said captain Harry Kane is the best player he has ever played with and tipped the Tottenham Hotspur forward to break the Premier League scoring record.

Kane drew a blank in each of England's three group games at Euro 2020 but scored the second goal in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Germany which put them into a quarter-final clash with Ukraine in Rome on Saturday.

Grealish said Kane, or "H", was a deadly finisher but also praised his work outside the box.

"No one here would ever doubt 'H'," Grealish told British media on Thursday. "He's the best player I've ever played with.

"He'll break the Premier League record and the England one but he’s not just a goalscorer. He’s unbelievable when he drops deep and finds passes and puts it through people’s legs."

Alan Shearer is the Premier League's all-time leading scorer with 260. Kane is seventh on the list with 166.

Grealish came off the bench to play a role in both goals in the win over Germany but the 25-year-old said he was uncertain if he would start against Ukraine, given the attacking options at coach Gareth Southgate's disposal.

"It’s difficult. I’m always playing every minute at Villa. I have to be realistic about myself and the talent that we have, especially in my position," he said.

"You've got six players that play either side of Harry that, in reality, could play for most clubs in the world -- myself, Jadon (Sancho), Marcus (Rashford), Raheem (Sterling), Phil (Foden) and Bukayo (Saka)," he said.

"That’s scary how good us six are. That’s not being big-headed. That’s just the truth."

England midfielder Jack Grealish said captain Harry Kane is the best player he has ever played with and tipped the Tottenham Hotspur forward to break the Premier League scoring record.

England midfielder Jack Grealish said captain Harry Kane is the best player he has ever played with and tipped the Tottenham Hotspur forward to break the Premier League scoring record. Kane drew a blank in each of England's three group games at Euro 2020 but scored the second goal in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Germany which put them into a quarter-final clash with Ukraine in Rome on Saturday. Grealish said Kane, or "H", was a deadly finisher but also praised his work outside the box. "No one here would ever doubt 'H'," Grealish told British media on Thursday. "He's the best player I've ever played with. "He'll break the Premier League record and the England one but he’s not just a goalscorer. He’s unbelievable when he drops deep and finds passes and puts it through people’s legs." Alan Shearer is the Premier League's all-time leading scorer with 260. Kane is seventh on the list with 166. Grealish came off the bench to play a role in both goals in the win over Germany but the 25-year-old said he was uncertain if he would start against Ukraine, given the attacking options at coach Gareth Southgate's disposal. "It’s difficult. I’m always playing every minute at Villa. I have to be realistic about myself and the talent that we have, especially in my position," he said. "You've got six players that play either side of Harry that, in reality, could play for most clubs in the world -- myself, Jadon (Sancho), Marcus (Rashford), Raheem (Sterling), Phil (Foden) and Bukayo (Saka)," he said. "That’s scary how good us six are. That’s not being big-headed. That’s just the truth."

Football-  Harry Kane is the best player I've played with, says Jack Grealish

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back with a bunch of significant quarterfinal apparatuses this end of the week as Spain takes on Sweden at the Krestovsky Stadium on Friday. The two groups won exhausting take-out challenges recently and should burrow profound to traverse this match.&nbsp;

Switzerland pulled off the resentment of the competition so exceptionally far as they paralyzed France in a penalty shoot-out to arrive at the quarterfinals. Switzerland can sneak up all of a sudden on their day and will require a comparative exhibition to get to the following phase of Euro 2020.&nbsp;

Spain began their Euro 2020 mission in a disappointing fashion yet has figured out how to bob back and score ten goals in two games. They pulled off a splendid 5-3 triumph against Croatia in their last game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-unai-simon-tortured-by-error-but-appreciates-team-mates-solidarity-394934" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Unai Simon 'tortured' by error but appreciates team mates' solidarity</a>

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

Spain have a great record against Switzerland and have won 16 matches out of an aggregate of 22 games played between the two teams. Switzerland have overseen only one triumph against Spain and should work out of their skins this end of the week.&nbsp;

The last meeting between the two groups occurred in the UEFA Nations League last year and finished in a 1-1 draw.&nbsp;

<h2>Switzerland vs. Spain&nbsp;</h2>

Switzerland have additionally been in great goalscoring structure at Euro 2020 and has scored three goals in every one of their last two games. The dark horses had never scored multiple goals in a Euro match before this year and may well make more history this end of the week.&nbsp;

Granit Xhaka got his subsequent yellow card against France this week and his suspension will come as a significant hit to Switzerland's fortunes. Denis Zakaria will probably supplant the Swiss star.

Switzerland possible&nbsp;XI: Yann Sommer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez, Kevin Mbabu, Remo Freuler, Denis Zakaria, Steven Zuber, Xherdan Shaqiri, Haris Seferovic, Breel Embolo.

After low-scoring matches, their initial two matches at Euro 2020, Spain have at long last discovered their rhythm and turned into the first team to score five goals in two successive matches. Cesar Azpilicueta and Eric Garcia are likely to get the nod over Marcos Llorente and Pau Torres to feature at the back, while there are not expected to be any alterations to the midfield three.

With his thrilling strike in additional time against Croatia, Alvaro Morata joined Fernando Torres as Spain's most productive goalscorer at the Euros with five strikes.

Spain possible XI: Unai Simon, Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba, Koke, Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Ferran Torres, Alvaro Morata, Pablo Sarabia.

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back with a bunch of significant quarterfinal apparatuses this end of the week as Spain takes on Sweden at the Krestovsky Stadium on Friday.

The UEFA Euro 2020 is back with a bunch of significant quarterfinal apparatuses this end of the week as Spain takes on Sweden at the Krestovsky Stadium on Friday. The two groups won exhausting take-out challenges recently and should burrow profound to traverse this match. Switzerland pulled off the resentment of the competition so exceptionally far as they paralyzed France in a penalty shoot-out to arrive at the quarterfinals. Switzerland can sneak up all of a sudden on their day and will require a comparative exhibition to get to the following phase of Euro 2020. Spain began their Euro 2020 mission in a disappointing fashion yet has figured out how to bob back and score ten goals in two games. They pulled off a splendid 5-3 triumph against Croatia in their last game. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Unai Simon 'tortured' by error but appreciates team mates' solidarity Head-to-Head Spain have a great record against Switzerland and have won 16 matches out of an aggregate of 22 games played between the two teams. Switzerland have overseen only one triumph against Spain and should work out of their skins this end of the week. The last meeting between the two groups occurred in the UEFA Nations League last year and finished in a 1-1 draw. Switzerland vs. Spain Switzerland have additionally been in great goalscoring structure at Euro 2020 and has scored three goals in every one of their last two games. The dark horses had never scored multiple goals in a Euro match before this year and may well make more history this end of the week. Granit Xhaka got his subsequent yellow card against France this week and his suspension will come as a significant hit to Switzerland's fortunes. Denis Zakaria will probably supplant the Swiss star. Switzerland possible XI: Yann Sommer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez, Kevin Mbabu, Remo Freuler, Denis Zakaria, Steven Zuber, Xherdan Shaqiri, Haris Seferovic, Breel Embolo. After low-scoring matches, their initial two matches at Euro 2020, Spain have at long last discovered their rhythm and turned into the first team to score five goals in two successive matches. Cesar Azpilicueta and Eric Garcia are likely to get the nod over Marcos Llorente and Pau Torres to feature at the back, while there are not expected to be any alterations to the midfield three. With his thrilling strike in additional time against Croatia, Alvaro Morata joined Fernando Torres as Spain's most productive goalscorer at the Euros with five strikes. Spain possible XI: Unai Simon, Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba, Koke, Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Ferran Torres, Alvaro Morata, Pablo Sarabia.

Euro 2020: Quarter-finals swing into action as Spain takes on Switzerland

Italy will take on Belgium in the quarter last of Euro 2020 in Munich. The two groups have won every one of the four matches they have played so far at Euro 2020.&nbsp;

In this manner, it will be a mouth-watering clash between two in-structure teams. Italy, who won the competition in 1968, are unbeaten in their last 30 matches under Roberto Mancini and that is an amazing record by any norm.&nbsp;

Belgium, then again, are the no. 1 team as per the FIFA rankings. They took out reigning champs Portugal in their Euro 2020 Round of 16. The two teams will fancy their shots at getting a triumph and it's anything but an acutely challenging match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Euro 2020: Italy finally get real test up against Serie A leading marksman Romelu Lukaku"> Euro 2020: Italy finally get real test up against Serie A leading marksman Romelu Lukaku</a>

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

Italy have a phenomenal record against Belgium and have dominated 14 matches out of an aggregate of 23 matches played between the two teams. Belgium have overseen just five triumphs against Italy and should take it's anything but a score in this match. The last gathering between the two teams occurred at Euro 2016 and finished in a 2-0 triumph for Italy.&nbsp;

<h2>Belgium versus Italy&nbsp;</h2>

Romelu Lukaku has at last satisfied hopes in a significant competition and is among the top goal scorers with three goals in Euro 2020. With 69 goals in 97 appearances, he will attempt to score another goal versus Italy.&nbsp;

Kevin De Bruyne would drop back a piece on occasion to play passes and make moves from the center third too. Subsequently, Jorginho would need to assume an essential part in containing Kevin De Bruyne and grabbing the ball from him in the midfield. Although,&nbsp;&nbsp;De Bruyne and Eden Hazard's involvement yet to be confirmed, Belgium are set to have the remainder of their squad available for the quarter-final.

Belgium's Probable XI: Courtois; Alderweireld, Vermaelen, Vertonghen; T. Hazard, Witsel, Tielemans, Meunier; Mertens, Lukaku, Carrasco

Italy have conceded just a single goal at Euro 2020 up until this point and their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was not really tried in the league stage. Belgium, then again, have scored eight goals at Euro 2020, and have probably the best attack.&nbsp;

Italy can flaunt their bench strength at Euro 2020, an alluring quality in competitive football. Football is a team game and Roberto Mancini has the freedom to call upon quality footballers from the bench to fill pretty much every position.&nbsp;

Italy's Probable XI: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Spinazzola; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne

Italy have never lost to Belgium in a significant international tournament and have overseen three triumphs and one draw against their adversaries in the World Cup and the Euros. This clash between the two teams promises to be an exciting one.&nbsp;

Italy will take on Belgium in the quarter last of Euro 2020 in Munich. The two groups have won every one of the four matches they have played so far at Euro 2020.

Italy will take on Belgium in the quarter last of Euro 2020 in Munich. The two groups have won every one of the four matches they have played so far at Euro 2020. In this manner, it will be a mouth-watering clash between two in-structure teams. Italy, who won the competition in 1968, are unbeaten in their last 30 matches under Roberto Mancini and that is an amazing record by any norm. Belgium, then again, are the no. 1 team as per the FIFA rankings. They took out reigning champs Portugal in their Euro 2020 Round of 16. The two teams will fancy their shots at getting a triumph and it's anything but an acutely challenging match. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Italy finally get real test up against Serie A leading marksman Romelu Lukaku Head-to-Head Italy have a phenomenal record against Belgium and have dominated 14 matches out of an aggregate of 23 matches played between the two teams. Belgium have overseen just five triumphs against Italy and should take it's anything but a score in this match. The last gathering between the two teams occurred at Euro 2016 and finished in a 2-0 triumph for Italy. Belgium versus Italy Romelu Lukaku has at last satisfied hopes in a significant competition and is among the top goal scorers with three goals in Euro 2020. With 69 goals in 97 appearances, he will attempt to score another goal versus Italy. Kevin De Bruyne would drop back a piece on occasion to play passes and make moves from the center third too. Subsequently, Jorginho would need to assume an essential part in containing Kevin De Bruyne and grabbing the ball from him in the midfield. Although, De Bruyne and Eden Hazard's involvement yet to be confirmed, Belgium are set to have the remainder of their squad available for the quarter-final. Belgium's Probable XI: Courtois; Alderweireld, Vermaelen, Vertonghen; T. Hazard, Witsel, Tielemans, Meunier; Mertens, Lukaku, Carrasco Italy have conceded just a single goal at Euro 2020 up until this point and their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was not really tried in the league stage. Belgium, then again, have scored eight goals at Euro 2020, and have probably the best attack. Italy can flaunt their bench strength at Euro 2020, an alluring quality in competitive football. Football is a team game and Roberto Mancini has the freedom to call upon quality footballers from the bench to fill pretty much every position. Italy's Probable XI: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Spinazzola; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne Italy have never lost to Belgium in a significant international tournament and have overseen three triumphs and one draw against their adversaries in the World Cup and the Euros. This clash between the two teams promises to be an exciting one.

Euro 2020: Belgium and Italy bolt horns in enthralling quarterfinals

England`s remaining rivals at the European Championship will consider them a "dangerous" side after they beat Germany 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals, captain Harry Kane said. 
 
Kane and Raheem Sterling struck late goals in Tuesday`s last-16 match to guide England to their first knockout victory over Germany since the 1966 World Cup final. 
 
Gareth Southgate`s side will next face Ukraine in Saturday`s quarter-final clash at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. 
 
"Any team will look at us and know that we`re dangerous," Kane said. 
 
"There isn`t anything bigger than this when the expectation is on and we delivered, so we should be proud - but we can`t stop here. 
 
"Hopefully we`ll be back here in the semi-finals and the final." 
 
While the build-up to the match was dominated by talk of historic and bitter tournament losses to Germany, England`s focus will now be on making some history of their own. 
 
The visitors` defeat marked the end of Joachim Loew`s time as Germany coach after 15 years in charge, during which he guided them to the 2014 World Cup title in Brazil. 
 
Defensive midfielder Declan Rice said critics had written off England but Tuesday`s victory had proved them wrong. 
 
"It is history, all the players were asked about the past games but we created history," Rice said. 
 
"With a full house, everyone had the fire in the belly to one, knock Germany out, and two, progress in the tournament."

England`s remaining rivals at the European Championship will consider them a "dangerous" side after they beat Germany 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals, captain Harry Kane said.

England`s remaining rivals at the European Championship will consider them a "dangerous" side after they beat Germany 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals, captain Harry Kane said. Kane and Raheem Sterling struck late goals in Tuesday`s last-16 match to guide England to their first knockout victory over Germany since the 1966 World Cup final. Gareth Southgate`s side will next face Ukraine in Saturday`s quarter-final clash at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. "Any team will look at us and know that we`re dangerous," Kane said. "There isn`t anything bigger than this when the expectation is on and we delivered, so we should be proud - but we can`t stop here. "Hopefully we`ll be back here in the semi-finals and the final." While the build-up to the match was dominated by talk of historic and bitter tournament losses to Germany, England`s focus will now be on making some history of their own. The visitors` defeat marked the end of Joachim Loew`s time as Germany coach after 15 years in charge, during which he guided them to the 2014 World Cup title in Brazil. Defensive midfielder Declan Rice said critics had written off England but Tuesday`s victory had proved them wrong. "It is history, all the players were asked about the past games but we created history," Rice said. "With a full house, everyone had the fire in the belly to one, knock Germany out, and two, progress in the tournament."

Football- England will be seen as a dangerous side now: Kane

Ukrainian forward Artem Besedin is out for the rest of Euro 2020 with a knee injury from a tackle by Sweden's Marcus Danielson, a team coach said on Wednesday.

Danielson was sent off after his attempt to track down a pass resulted in a studs-up challenge against Besedin during Ukraine's 2-1 defeat of Sweden in their last-16 knockout game.

Besedin is returning to Ukraine for tests, said assistant coach Oleksandr Shovkovskiy.

"We are no longer able to count on Artem Besedin in our next matches," Shovkovskiy wrote on Facebook. "He is forced to leave the team and return to Kyiv for a full examination."

Besedin's club Dynamo Kyiv said that an MRI had shown a partial tear to his posterior cruciate ligament as well as damage to lateral ligaments and a fracture to part of his femur.

In a statement, the club said Besedin's recovery would take around six months and that he had suffered a hyperextension of his knee, adding his injuries would be treated conservatively.

Ukraine faces England in Rome in the quarter-finals on Saturday. To show support, all Ukrainian ministers wore the team's yellow-and-blue jerseys in the cabinet on Wednesday.

Ukrainian forward Artem Besedin is out for the rest of Euro 2020 with a knee injury from a tackle by Sweden's Marcus Danielson, a team coach said on Wednesday. Danielson was sent off after his attempt to track down a pass resulted in a studs-up challenge against Besedin during Ukraine's 2-1 defeat of Sweden in their last-16 knockout game.

Ukrainian forward Artem Besedin is out for the rest of Euro 2020 with a knee injury from a tackle by Sweden's Marcus Danielson, a team coach said on Wednesday. Danielson was sent off after his attempt to track down a pass resulted in a studs-up challenge against Besedin during Ukraine's 2-1 defeat of Sweden in their last-16 knockout game. Besedin is returning to Ukraine for tests, said assistant coach Oleksandr Shovkovskiy. "We are no longer able to count on Artem Besedin in our next matches," Shovkovskiy wrote on Facebook. "He is forced to leave the team and return to Kyiv for a full examination." Besedin's club Dynamo Kyiv said that an MRI had shown a partial tear to his posterior cruciate ligament as well as damage to lateral ligaments and a fracture to part of his femur. In a statement, the club said Besedin's recovery would take around six months and that he had suffered a hyperextension of his knee, adding his injuries would be treated conservatively. Ukraine faces England in Rome in the quarter-finals on Saturday. To show support, all Ukrainian ministers wore the team's yellow-and-blue jerseys in the cabinet on Wednesday.

Euro 2020: Artem Besedin out of Euros with knee injury after Marcus Danielson challenge

Ukraine manager Andriy Shevchenko said his team would not be intimidated by England's 2-0 win over Germany at Wembley in their Euro 2020 last-16 clash but motivated to produce an upset when they lock horns in Rome on Saturday.

The Ukrainians booked their quarter-final berth with an extra-time 2-1 win over Sweden on Tuesday thanks to a last-gasp goal by Artem Dovbyk after England sent Germany home on the back of second-half efforts from Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane.

"England are a great team, they have a deep bench, an outstanding coaching staff and we are fully aware how tough this game is going to be," Shevchenko told a news conference.

"I saw all their three group matches, not today's win over Germany because we had to prepare for our own game with Sweden. They are incredibly difficult to score against but their strength shouldn't scare us.

"It should motivate us because everything is possible in&nbsp;football&nbsp;as in life and we will play our hearts out to give our fans, even more, to cheer about."

England are yet to concede in the tournament, having beaten Croatia and the Czech Republic 1-0 in the group stage while they also drew 0-0 with Scotland.

Man of the match Oleksandr Zinchenko, who scored Ukraine's first goal and set up the second against Sweden, heaped praise on his Manchester City teammate Sterling who has scored three of England's four goals in Euro 2020.

"Sterling is one of the best wingers in the world and right now he is making all the difference for England," he said.

"We will need to be at our very best in defense to stop him but it will be difficult because he is on a roll."

Zinchenko added he and the rest of the team had been under pressure to deliver against Sweden after coming under fire for poor group-stage performances, having lost to the Netherlands and Austria while beating North Macedonia.

"It was difficult for me to adjust because a lot of criticism was poured on the whole team and on me in particular.

"Today, we have proved to the whole of Europe that we can achieve our goals."

"I would like to thank the fans, all those who managed to come to the stadium. This is a historic achievement and they should rejoice because moments like this are rare."

Ukraine manager Andriy Shevchenko said his team would not be intimidated by England's 2-0 win over Germany at Wembley in their Euro 2020 last-16 clash but motivated to produce an upset when they lock horns in Rome on Saturday.

Ukraine manager Andriy Shevchenko said his team would not be intimidated by England's 2-0 win over Germany at Wembley in their Euro 2020 last-16 clash but motivated to produce an upset when they lock horns in Rome on Saturday. The Ukrainians booked their quarter-final berth with an extra-time 2-1 win over Sweden on Tuesday thanks to a last-gasp goal by Artem Dovbyk after England sent Germany home on the back of second-half efforts from Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane. "England are a great team, they have a deep bench, an outstanding coaching staff and we are fully aware how tough this game is going to be," Shevchenko told a news conference. "I saw all their three group matches, not today's win over Germany because we had to prepare for our own game with Sweden. They are incredibly difficult to score against but their strength shouldn't scare us. "It should motivate us because everything is possible in football as in life and we will play our hearts out to give our fans, even more, to cheer about." England are yet to concede in the tournament, having beaten Croatia and the Czech Republic 1-0 in the group stage while they also drew 0-0 with Scotland. Man of the match Oleksandr Zinchenko, who scored Ukraine's first goal and set up the second against Sweden, heaped praise on his Manchester City teammate Sterling who has scored three of England's four goals in Euro 2020. "Sterling is one of the best wingers in the world and right now he is making all the difference for England," he said. "We will need to be at our very best in defense to stop him but it will be difficult because he is on a roll." Zinchenko added he and the rest of the team had been under pressure to deliver against Sweden after coming under fire for poor group-stage performances, having lost to the Netherlands and Austria while beating North Macedonia. "It was difficult for me to adjust because a lot of criticism was poured on the whole team and on me in particular. "Today, we have proved to the whole of Europe that we can achieve our goals." "I would like to thank the fans, all those who managed to come to the stadium. This is a historic achievement and they should rejoice because moments like this are rare."

Euro 2020: Ukraine will have no fear against England, says manager Andriy Shevchenko

Germany returns home on Wednesday following their Euro 2020 last 16 exit to England, with departing coach Joachim Loew at the heart of fierce criticism after yet another early tournament elimination.

Loew, who had a contract to 2022 but following several bad results decided in March to leave after the Euros, should have gone much earlier, many will argue.

Germany's shock 2018 World Cup exit and their inaugural Nations League relegation that year had stunned fans who demanded change from the man who led them to the 2014 World Cup title.

But Loew's overhaul was never completed, cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic and bad results, including a 6-0 loss to Spain and defeat at home against North Macedonia in a World Cup qualifier.

Despite many changes to his squad in the last three years, Loew opted for a playing style that players were not used to at their clubs, with a three-man defense.

"Sobering. Unconscious," said former Germany captain Michael Ballack of the team's 2-0 loss to England on Tuesday at Wembley stadium.

"It was clear from the first half that there were no solutions, that we pulled back for no reason. We did too little and made it easy for them. I don't know why the coach waited so long to change systems."

It is a question that is on many a German fan's minds: was it Loew's stubbornness that has reduced the four-time world and three-time European champions to a tournament also-ran?

The same question concerns not deploying Joshua Kimmich in a central midfield role, the use of Thomas Mueller in an unusual attacking role for him and of course that three-man backline system.

"That three-man defense, I think, never managed to convince us that it can provide defensive stability and stop chances for the opponents," said Germany's Under-21 coach Stefan Kunz.

"That was a defensive problem that we have been carrying through the entire tournament."

Germany fell behind in each of the four games they played in the tournament and barely made a mark upfront.

From an aggressive, attacking style of play that captivated fans at the 2010 World Cup and then dazzled them on their way to the title in Brazil four years later, Loew has managed to chip away at his own legacy in recent years.

The Euro exit, many German fans hope, will mark the end of that slide.

His successor and former assistant Hansi Flick has his work cut out as he looks to restore Germany's&nbsp;football&nbsp;pride in time for next year's Qatar World Cup.

Germany returns home on Wednesday following their Euro 2020 last 16 exit to England, with departing coach Joachim Loew at the heart of fierce criticism after yet another early tournament elimination.

Germany returns home on Wednesday following their Euro 2020 last 16 exit to England, with departing coach Joachim Loew at the heart of fierce criticism after yet another early tournament elimination. Loew, who had a contract to 2022 but following several bad results decided in March to leave after the Euros, should have gone much earlier, many will argue. Germany's shock 2018 World Cup exit and their inaugural Nations League relegation that year had stunned fans who demanded change from the man who led them to the 2014 World Cup title. But Loew's overhaul was never completed, cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic and bad results, including a 6-0 loss to Spain and defeat at home against North Macedonia in a World Cup qualifier. Despite many changes to his squad in the last three years, Loew opted for a playing style that players were not used to at their clubs, with a three-man defense. "Sobering. Unconscious," said former Germany captain Michael Ballack of the team's 2-0 loss to England on Tuesday at Wembley stadium. "It was clear from the first half that there were no solutions, that we pulled back for no reason. We did too little and made it easy for them. I don't know why the coach waited so long to change systems." It is a question that is on many a German fan's minds: was it Loew's stubbornness that has reduced the four-time world and three-time European champions to a tournament also-ran? The same question concerns not deploying Joshua Kimmich in a central midfield role, the use of Thomas Mueller in an unusual attacking role for him and of course that three-man backline system. "That three-man defense, I think, never managed to convince us that it can provide defensive stability and stop chances for the opponents," said Germany's Under-21 coach Stefan Kunz. "That was a defensive problem that we have been carrying through the entire tournament." Germany fell behind in each of the four games they played in the tournament and barely made a mark upfront. From an aggressive, attacking style of play that captivated fans at the 2010 World Cup and then dazzled them on their way to the title in Brazil four years later, Loew has managed to chip away at his own legacy in recent years. The Euro exit, many German fans hope, will mark the end of that slide. His successor and former assistant Hansi Flick has his work cut out as he looks to restore Germany's football pride in time for next year's Qatar World Cup.

Euro 2020: Germany's Euro exit blamed on departing Joachim Loew decisions

England manager Gareth Southgate prefers 'managing expectations' to euphoria but such an approach is hard to maintain when your team has just beaten their old rivals Germany and kicked off the biggest party since the pandemic hit the country.

The 40,000 fans&nbsp;at Wembley had been particularly raucous, the 5 pm local kick-off time leading many to take the day off work and fully make the most of re-opened pubs and bars.

Hours after the final whistle had blown on a 2-0 victory the once self-mocking but now aspirational refrain of "Football's Coming Home" could still be heard in tube stations across the capital.

The morning's newspapers captured the mood of confident hope for a team without a trophy since 1966.

"Time to Dream - Nation's joy as Three Lions end Germany hoodoo and open up the road to final" declared the front page of the Daily Mirror after what it called "England's night of glory" while the Daily Telegraph's reflected the post-lockdown vibe with "Finally something to cheer about".

Even the Guardian, known for its more restrained relationship with national pride, headlined their report with "Like emerging from a dream into a strange new light".

The bearded Southgate, who has the demeanor of a rather sensitive and supportive schoolteacher and chooses his words with the calculation of a career politician, was, however, very much 'on-brand' after the game.

He quickly turned talked to his team keeping "feet on the ground", mentally being "in the right space".

"It is a dangerous moment for us. We will have that warmth of success and the feeling around the country that we only have to turn up to win the thing, but we know it is going to be an immense challenge from here on in," he said.

That is the right and prudent approach for a coach to take, of course, but it is not only those waking up with a hangover and St George's flag on the kitchen floor that expects them to beat Ukraine in the quarter-final.

By any objective measure, England are clear favorites for Saturday's game in Rome and would also be expected to beat Denmark or the Czech Republic in an eventual semi-final back on home turf.

Indeed, a look at the two squad lists before Tuesday's game showed England had an array of talent -- young, skillful players performing weekly in the Premier League and Champions League -- that should have been expected to beat a German team that was mediocre by their often world-beating standards.

Quite a lot of that talent was left on the bench though by Southgate, who rather than trust the likes of Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, or Marcus Rashford to dominate, opted to play five defenders and two defensive midfielders.

There is nothing like a victory to change a narrative and many observers felt that the result was a vindication of that approach.

But it didn't feel to be working when, ten minutes into the second half, that trio of players warmed up on the touchline to cheers from the crowd, while their team mate's laboured with little craft.

GREALISH IMPACT

Grealish eventually entered the field, to a loud roar and promptly changed the course of the game and possibly the tournament for England.

Was it tactical genius from Southgate to introduce the Aston Villa playmaker when the opposition were tiring or was it a belated recognition that has overly cautious approach wasn't working?

Either way, Grealish showed again he has the ability to make things happen, to open up space, to draw players to him, to go past people, and to deliver the killer ball. Whatever Southgate's intentions for the last eight clashes, Ukraine coach Andriy Shevchenko will surely be hoping the player is again on the bench.

Of course, the style of England's&nbsp;football&nbsp;will be of little concern to anyone in the country, should they end their 55 years wait for a trophy at Wembley on July 11.

No one in Portugal cared that they won the tournament five years ago after failing to win a group stage game and only once winning a match inside 90 minutes.

Likewise, you will struggle to find a Greek whose memories of their unlikely 2004 triumph are focused not on the celebrations and glory but on the defensive tactics their coach employed -- indeed, the German Otto Rehhagel was made an honorary citizen of Athens.

England could win this tournament playing enthralling and entertaining&nbsp;football&nbsp;built around an outstanding generation of attacking talent.

But that is not the Southgate way -- and if his more cautious, careful, measured approach delivers a first-ever European Championship -- few of his compatriots will care.

Anything less and you can be sure the narrative will change again.

England manager Gareth Southgate prefers 'managing expectations' to euphoria but such an approach is hard to maintain when your team has just beaten their old rivals Germany and kicked off the biggest party since the pandemic hit the country.

England manager Gareth Southgate prefers 'managing expectations' to euphoria but such an approach is hard to maintain when your team has just beaten their old rivals Germany and kicked off the biggest party since the pandemic hit the country. The 40,000 fans at Wembley had been particularly raucous, the 5 pm local kick-off time leading many to take the day off work and fully make the most of re-opened pubs and bars. Hours after the final whistle had blown on a 2-0 victory the once self-mocking but now aspirational refrain of "Football's Coming Home" could still be heard in tube stations across the capital. The morning's newspapers captured the mood of confident hope for a team without a trophy since 1966. "Time to Dream - Nation's joy as Three Lions end Germany hoodoo and open up the road to final" declared the front page of the Daily Mirror after what it called "England's night of glory" while the Daily Telegraph's reflected the post-lockdown vibe with "Finally something to cheer about". Even the Guardian, known for its more restrained relationship with national pride, headlined their report with "Like emerging from a dream into a strange new light". The bearded Southgate, who has the demeanor of a rather sensitive and supportive schoolteacher and chooses his words with the calculation of a career politician, was, however, very much 'on-brand' after the game. He quickly turned talked to his team keeping "feet on the ground", mentally being "in the right space". "It is a dangerous moment for us. We will have that warmth of success and the feeling around the country that we only have to turn up to win the thing, but we know it is going to be an immense challenge from here on in," he said. That is the right and prudent approach for a coach to take, of course, but it is not only those waking up with a hangover and St George's flag on the kitchen floor that expects them to beat Ukraine in the quarter-final. By any objective measure, England are clear favorites for Saturday's game in Rome and would also be expected to beat Denmark or the Czech Republic in an eventual semi-final back on home turf. Indeed, a look at the two squad lists before Tuesday's game showed England had an array of talent -- young, skillful players performing weekly in the Premier League and Champions League -- that should have been expected to beat a German team that was mediocre by their often world-beating standards. Quite a lot of that talent was left on the bench though by Southgate, who rather than trust the likes of Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, or Marcus Rashford to dominate, opted to play five defenders and two defensive midfielders. There is nothing like a victory to change a narrative and many observers felt that the result was a vindication of that approach. But it didn't feel to be working when, ten minutes into the second half, that trio of players warmed up on the touchline to cheers from the crowd, while their team mate's laboured with little craft. GREALISH IMPACT Grealish eventually entered the field, to a loud roar and promptly changed the course of the game and possibly the tournament for England. Was it tactical genius from Southgate to introduce the Aston Villa playmaker when the opposition were tiring or was it a belated recognition that has overly cautious approach wasn't working? Either way, Grealish showed again he has the ability to make things happen, to open up space, to draw players to him, to go past people, and to deliver the killer ball. Whatever Southgate's intentions for the last eight clashes, Ukraine coach Andriy Shevchenko will surely be hoping the player is again on the bench. Of course, the style of England's football will be of little concern to anyone in the country, should they end their 55 years wait for a trophy at Wembley on July 11. No one in Portugal cared that they won the tournament five years ago after failing to win a group stage game and only once winning a match inside 90 minutes. Likewise, you will struggle to find a Greek whose memories of their unlikely 2004 triumph are focused not on the celebrations and glory but on the defensive tactics their coach employed -- indeed, the German Otto Rehhagel was made an honorary citizen of Athens. England could win this tournament playing enthralling and entertaining football built around an outstanding generation of attacking talent. But that is not the Southgate way -- and if his more cautious, careful, measured approach delivers a first-ever European Championship -- few of his compatriots will care. Anything less and you can be sure the narrative will change again.

Euro 2020: After Germany win, there may be a future in England's dreaming

Doubters over Italy's chances of going all the way at Euro 2020 have pointed to their comfortable path to the quarter-finals, but that will all change on Friday, up against a Belgium side whose leading marksman knows the Italians all too well.

Romelu Lukaku enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in 2020-21, voted player of the year in Italy's Serie A as Belgium forward fired Inter Milan to their first top-flight title in 11 years.

Next in his sights are club teammates and players used to try to stop him on a weekly basis in Serie A as Belgium and Italy, who have won four out of four games each at Euro 2020, go head to head in Munich in the last eight.

Italy are on a record unbeaten run of 31 matches, last losing back in September 2018 against Portugal. However, such a run has not convinced everyone, given Roberto Mancini's side have beaten lower-ranked opposition in Switzerland, Turkey, Wales, and Austria so far.

With Lukaku in town, spearheading the attack for the world's top-ranked team according to FIFA, Italy will have no such easy ride.

"We know Lukaku well because we also face him in Serie A," Italy and Napoli defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo told UEFA.com. "We know he is a great striker, he had a wonderful season with Inter.

"He is to be kept under observation, but Belgium have many strong players and it will be a great match.

"The further you go, the stronger teams you face, but the approach is always the same."

Lukaku's 24 league goals last season for Inter represents his second-best career return for a domestic campaign, but his chances of adding to his three Euro 2020 strikes so far could be affected by key injuries to two of his chief providers.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who made the joint-second most assists in the English Premier League last season, suffered an ankle injury in Belgium's 1-0 last-16 win over Portugal, while captain Eden Hazard limped off with a leg muscle problem.

Both could be fit for Friday's clash, but should either not make it, facing a defense who conceded their first goal in 19 hours and 28 minutes against Austria last Saturday, Lukaku could be in for a tough afternoon.

But those resolute Azzurri defenders know from experience that he should be underestimated at their peril.

Doubters over Italy's chances of going all the way at Euro 2020 have pointed to their comfortable path to the quarter-finals, but that will all change on Friday, up against a Belgium side whose leading marksman knows the Italians all too well.

Doubters over Italy's chances of going all the way at Euro 2020 have pointed to their comfortable path to the quarter-finals, but that will all change on Friday, up against a Belgium side whose leading marksman knows the Italians all too well. Romelu Lukaku enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in 2020-21, voted player of the year in Italy's Serie A as Belgium forward fired Inter Milan to their first top-flight title in 11 years. Next in his sights are club teammates and players used to try to stop him on a weekly basis in Serie A as Belgium and Italy, who have won four out of four games each at Euro 2020, go head to head in Munich in the last eight. Italy are on a record unbeaten run of 31 matches, last losing back in September 2018 against Portugal. However, such a run has not convinced everyone, given Roberto Mancini's side have beaten lower-ranked opposition in Switzerland, Turkey, Wales, and Austria so far. With Lukaku in town, spearheading the attack for the world's top-ranked team according to FIFA, Italy will have no such easy ride. "We know Lukaku well because we also face him in Serie A," Italy and Napoli defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo told UEFA.com. "We know he is a great striker, he had a wonderful season with Inter. "He is to be kept under observation, but Belgium have many strong players and it will be a great match. "The further you go, the stronger teams you face, but the approach is always the same." Lukaku's 24 league goals last season for Inter represents his second-best career return for a domestic campaign, but his chances of adding to his three Euro 2020 strikes so far could be affected by key injuries to two of his chief providers. Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who made the joint-second most assists in the English Premier League last season, suffered an ankle injury in Belgium's 1-0 last-16 win over Portugal, while captain Eden Hazard limped off with a leg muscle problem. Both could be fit for Friday's clash, but should either not make it, facing a defense who conceded their first goal in 19 hours and 28 minutes against Austria last Saturday, Lukaku could be in for a tough afternoon. But those resolute Azzurri defenders know from experience that he should be underestimated at their peril.

Euro 2020: Italy finally get real test up against Serie A leading marksman Romelu Lukaku

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-switzerland-beat-france-on-penalties-to-reach-euro-2020-last-eight-394631" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Switzerland beat France on penalties to reach Euro 2020 last eight</a>

The 22-yer-old striker said that France were "incredibly sad" after exiting the tournament and that his miss would keep him awake at night.

"I'm sorry about this penalty. I wanted to help the team but I failed," Mbappe wrote on Instagram.

"It's going to be hard to sleep after this, but unfortunately these are the ups and downs of this sport that I love so much.

"The most important [thing] will be to get back up again even stronger for future commitments. Congratulations and good luck to the Swiss team."

Earlier, French head coach Didier Deschamps defended the PSG star and said that no one was angry at him.&nbsp;

"It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal [at the Euros], he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference.

"No-one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added.

"The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps.

"Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained.

"We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland.

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Switzerland beat France on penalties to reach Euro 2020 last eight The 22-yer-old striker said that France were "incredibly sad" after exiting the tournament and that his miss would keep him awake at night. "I'm sorry about this penalty. I wanted to help the team but I failed," Mbappe wrote on Instagram. "It's going to be hard to sleep after this, but unfortunately these are the ups and downs of this sport that I love so much. "The most important [thing] will be to get back up again even stronger for future commitments. Congratulations and good luck to the Swiss team." Earlier, French head coach Didier Deschamps defended the PSG star and said that no one was angry at him. "It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal [at the Euros], he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference. "No-one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added. "The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps. "Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained. "We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

Euro 2020- 'Wanted to help the team but I failed': Kylian Mbappe apologises for missing penalty

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said.

The French threw away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 in normal time, and after a goalless extra time, they crashed out when Mbappe's penalty was saved by Swiss keeper Yann Sommer.

Deschamps said the striker and the rest of the team would learn from their tournament disappointment

"It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal (at the Euros), he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference.

"No one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added.

The 52-year-old coach dismissed suggestions none of Mbappe's teammates went to comfort him after his spot-kick was saved.

"The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps.

France were 3-1 up and cruising with 15 minutes to go after a superb goal by Paul Pogba, but the dogged Swiss scored twice to force extra time before eventually going through to face Spain in the quarter-finals in St Petersburg on Friday.

"Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained.

"We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

Kingsley Coman hit the bar in the final seconds of normal time as luck seemed to desert the world champions when they needed it most, but Deschamps was not complaining.

"In extra time there were some final chances that we had, and penalties are always like that. It hurts, but you have to accept it -- that's&nbsp;football," he said.

"Mostly we're on the good end, but today we're not and everyone is really sad. Everyone is really disappointed."

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said.

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said. The French threw away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 in normal time, and after a goalless extra time, they crashed out when Mbappe's penalty was saved by Swiss keeper Yann Sommer. Deschamps said the striker and the rest of the team would learn from their tournament disappointment "It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal (at the Euros), he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference. "No one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added. The 52-year-old coach dismissed suggestions none of Mbappe's teammates went to comfort him after his spot-kick was saved. "The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps. France were 3-1 up and cruising with 15 minutes to go after a superb goal by Paul Pogba, but the dogged Swiss scored twice to force extra time before eventually going through to face Spain in the quarter-finals in St Petersburg on Friday. "Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained. "We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better." Kingsley Coman hit the bar in the final seconds of normal time as luck seemed to desert the world champions when they needed it most, but Deschamps was not complaining. "In extra time there were some final chances that we had, and penalties are always like that. It hurts, but you have to accept it -- that's football," he said. "Mostly we're on the good end, but today we're not and everyone is really sad. Everyone is really disappointed."

Euro 2020: Kylian Mbappe will bounce back after penalty miss, says Didier Deschamps

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.

"It was a very intense game today that really had everything. Everyone saw our true team spirit today," Luis Enrique told a news conference.

"When the word ego disappears and the word team appears, of course, it's fantastic to be part of a group like that."

Spain had taken a 3-1 lead after an incredible error from keeper Unai Simon saw them fall behind.

"They didn't really create any chance, yet we conceded a goal. So when that happened, it felt very unfair and of course, it can lead to a bit of shock for a few minutes," Luis Enrique said.

'ENJOY&nbsp;FOOTBALL'

Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals in the 85th minute and in added time, but Spain went on to score two goals in extra time.

"I am pleased we got a second chance. That doesn't usually happen," the coach added. "It went crazy really after the 80th minute when we could have scored a fourth goal and put it to bed. Those final 10 minutes are something we have to learn from.

"We don't have that much international experience within the squad, and perhaps those kinds of mistakes are inevitable."

Luis Enrique was moved by the fans' appreciation of the pulsating game in Copenhagen.

"What really struck me was the final five minutes of extra time, when the fans stood up and applauded and paid tribute to the great effort and commitment of all of the players who had competed," he said.

"That was a lovely gesture from the fans, it was about recognizing the spectacle that both teams put on today. The headline tonight is: enjoy&nbsp;football."

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals. "It was a very intense game today that really had everything. Everyone saw our true team spirit today," Luis Enrique told a news conference. "When the word ego disappears and the word team appears, of course, it's fantastic to be part of a group like that." Spain had taken a 3-1 lead after an incredible error from keeper Unai Simon saw them fall behind. "They didn't really create any chance, yet we conceded a goal. So when that happened, it felt very unfair and of course, it can lead to a bit of shock for a few minutes," Luis Enrique said. 'ENJOY FOOTBALL' Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals in the 85th minute and in added time, but Spain went on to score two goals in extra time. "I am pleased we got a second chance. That doesn't usually happen," the coach added. "It went crazy really after the 80th minute when we could have scored a fourth goal and put it to bed. Those final 10 minutes are something we have to learn from. "We don't have that much international experience within the squad, and perhaps those kinds of mistakes are inevitable." Luis Enrique was moved by the fans' appreciation of the pulsating game in Copenhagen. "What really struck me was the final five minutes of extra time, when the fans stood up and applauded and paid tribute to the great effort and commitment of all of the players who had competed," he said. "That was a lovely gesture from the fans, it was about recognizing the spectacle that both teams put on today. The headline tonight is: enjoy football."

Euro 2020: Spain coach hails team spirit after crazy 5-3 win over Croatia

Spain striker Alvaro Morata answered vicious criticism by helping fire his side to a 5-3 win over Croatia after extra time on Monday to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 in a breathless match laced with storylines.

In the best game of the tournament so far, Spain fell behind in the first half to a Pedri own goal from near the halfway line after keeper Unai Simon let a backpass bobble past him.

But the three-time European champions recovered their poise and looked en route to a comfortable victory with goals from Pablo Sarabia, Cesar Azpilicueta and Ferran Torres.

Showing the spirit that took them to the last World Cup final, Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals from Mislav Orsic in the 85th minute and a Mario Pasalic header in added time to force the extra period.

Luis Enrique's side showed tremendous character though and prevailed with Morata's superb strike in the 100th minute and a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal in the 103rd.

Spain celebrated a first knockout win in a major tournament since winning Euro 2012 to set up a quarter-final against France or Switzerland in St Petersburg on Friday.

"It was an epic game," said Luis Enrique.

"I've experienced many intense games in my career but this was one of the best. An infinite number of things happened to us but we knew how to turn things around. Everyone saw our true team spirit today."

Goalscorer Azpilicueta added: "We suffered so much, it has been such a long time since we have won a knockout match and we managed to finally do it against the World Cup runners-up."

SOLIDARITY FOR SIMON

Captain Sergio Busquets also praised his side's mentality and defended Simon, who compensated for his first-half calamity with a superb save to thwart Andrej Kramaric and stop Croatia from taking the lead early in extra-time.

"Unai knows he's got our total confidence. The goal was bad luck but he has a cool head on him and is ambitious and he showed that today. He was ultra-secure after the goal and made some top saves," Busquets said.

"When Croatia changed their system, they flooded the pitch high up and we didn't adjust quickly enough. But overall I'm so happy with the result, how we handled the extra time, and the fact that we are in the quarter-finals."

Croatia heads home with their heads held high but are still waiting to win a knockout game at the Euros.

"At the start of extra-time we had them on the ropes but we failed to score from two good chances. Then the game turned around and we didn’t have the strength to come back," said midfielder Luka Modric.

Coach Zlatko Dalic added: "We did everything we could, brought it back to 3-3, had some chances, but we couldn't win it in the end."

Morata has been the centre of attention of Spain's campaign amid inconsistent performances and criticism from his own supporters, which took an ugly turn during last week's 5-0 win over Slovakia.

His wife and children were threatened by supporters in Seville and he complained of facing death threats before the game, prompting coach Luis Enrique to urge police action.

The striker has long struggled for consistency in front of goal in a career that has taken him to Real Madrid, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus, while he has been accused by former coaches and teammates of having a fragile disposition.

But here he showed steel when Spain's confidence was on the floor, controlling a Dani Olmo cross with one foot before blasting into the roof of the net to put Spain back in front.

Substitute Oyarzabal struck moments later from another Olmo cross to increase Spain's lead and this time Croatia had no response.

The result made them the first side in a Euros to score five or more goals in consecutive matches, with Morata joining Fernando Torres as his nation's joint-highest scorer in the competition on five goals.

Pedri earned an unwanted record: his own goal from 49 yards was the longest own goal in Euros and the tournament's first-ever from outside the box.

Spain striker Alvaro Morata answered vicious criticism by helping fire his side to a 5-3 win over Croatia after extra time on Monday to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 in a breathless match laced with storylines.

Spain striker Alvaro Morata answered vicious criticism by helping fire his side to a 5-3 win over Croatia after extra time on Monday to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 in a breathless match laced with storylines. In the best game of the tournament so far, Spain fell behind in the first half to a Pedri own goal from near the halfway line after keeper Unai Simon let a backpass bobble past him. But the three-time European champions recovered their poise and looked en route to a comfortable victory with goals from Pablo Sarabia, Cesar Azpilicueta and Ferran Torres. Showing the spirit that took them to the last World Cup final, Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals from Mislav Orsic in the 85th minute and a Mario Pasalic header in added time to force the extra period. Luis Enrique's side showed tremendous character though and prevailed with Morata's superb strike in the 100th minute and a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal in the 103rd. Spain celebrated a first knockout win in a major tournament since winning Euro 2012 to set up a quarter-final against France or Switzerland in St Petersburg on Friday. "It was an epic game," said Luis Enrique. "I've experienced many intense games in my career but this was one of the best. An infinite number of things happened to us but we knew how to turn things around. Everyone saw our true team spirit today." Goalscorer Azpilicueta added: "We suffered so much, it has been such a long time since we have won a knockout match and we managed to finally do it against the World Cup runners-up." SOLIDARITY FOR SIMON Captain Sergio Busquets also praised his side's mentality and defended Simon, who compensated for his first-half calamity with a superb save to thwart Andrej Kramaric and stop Croatia from taking the lead early in extra-time. "Unai knows he's got our total confidence. The goal was bad luck but he has a cool head on him and is ambitious and he showed that today. He was ultra-secure after the goal and made some top saves," Busquets said. "When Croatia changed their system, they flooded the pitch high up and we didn't adjust quickly enough. But overall I'm so happy with the result, how we handled the extra time, and the fact that we are in the quarter-finals." Croatia heads home with their heads held high but are still waiting to win a knockout game at the Euros. "At the start of extra-time we had them on the ropes but we failed to score from two good chances. Then the game turned around and we didn’t have the strength to come back," said midfielder Luka Modric. Coach Zlatko Dalic added: "We did everything we could, brought it back to 3-3, had some chances, but we couldn't win it in the end." Morata has been the centre of attention of Spain's campaign amid inconsistent performances and criticism from his own supporters, which took an ugly turn during last week's 5-0 win over Slovakia. His wife and children were threatened by supporters in Seville and he complained of facing death threats before the game, prompting coach Luis Enrique to urge police action. The striker has long struggled for consistency in front of goal in a career that has taken him to Real Madrid, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus, while he has been accused by former coaches and teammates of having a fragile disposition. But here he showed steel when Spain's confidence was on the floor, controlling a Dani Olmo cross with one foot before blasting into the roof of the net to put Spain back in front. Substitute Oyarzabal struck moments later from another Olmo cross to increase Spain's lead and this time Croatia had no response. The result made them the first side in a Euros to score five or more goals in consecutive matches, with Morata joining Fernando Torres as his nation's joint-highest scorer in the competition on five goals. Pedri earned an unwanted record: his own goal from 49 yards was the longest own goal in Euros and the tournament's first-ever from outside the box.

Euro 2020: Spain beat Croatia in eight-goal thriller as Alvaro Morata answers critics

Amid all the recent recycling of England`s football tournament suffering at the hands of Germany, their Euro 2000 group stage victory in Belgium 21 years ago seems to have slipped from the nation`s collective memory - and with good reason. 
 
Alan Shearer`s second-half goal secured England`s only tournament win over their old rivals since the 1966 World Cup final, but it proved a false dawn and instead did the defeated Germans a lot more long-term good. 
 
As England and Germany prepare for Tuesday`s Euro2020 last-16 meeting at Wembley, their historical footballing relationship can effectively be divided into the period before the 68th minute of their 1970 World Cup quarter-final, and after. 
 
England had triumphed in the 1966 World Cup final and looked to be cruising into the semi-finals in Mexico four years later via goals by Alan Mullery and Martin Peters in what would have been their eighth win in nine meetings with then-West Germany. 
 
However, Franz Beckenbauer and Uwe Seeler levelled the match and Gerd Mueller won it for the then-West Germany in extra-time - and the balance of power shifted seismically. 
 
Two years later the Germans knocked England out of the qualifying stage for the 1972 European Championship, which they went on to win, sparking decades of extraordinary success. 
 
England were left on the outside looking in, not even making another tournament until the 1980 Euros - again won by West Germany - and when they did start qualifying, making little impact. 
 
Finally, in the 1990 World Cup, they made the semi-finals, only to lose to eventual winners Germany on penalties. At Euro96 at Wembley at the same stage it was the same outcome. 
 
Four years later the teams were drawn together in the group stage of Euro2000, but both got off to poor starts in the competition as England lost 3-2 to Portugal after being 2-0 up and Germany drew 1-1 with Romania. 
 
The meeting in Charleroi proved to be a dire encounter, with one pundit likening it to a fight to the death between the last two dinosaurs on earth. 
 
Freshly crowned world champions France, Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands were on a different level despite the presence of the likes of David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Michael Owen and Shearer in the England starting side. 
 
Shearer`s 53rd-minute header from a Beckham free kick nevertheless had the nation rejoicing in an unheard of win over the Germans and had them well-placed to advance from the group. 
 
That remained the case until the last minute of their final game against Romania when they conceded a last-minute penalty that enabled Romania to snatch a 3-2 win that sent them through at England`s expense. 
 
The joy of the win over Germany was immediately forgotten, and the fact that the Germans were hammered 3-0 by Portugal to finish bottom of the group merely left the Charleroi success looking even more irrelevant. 
 
Four months later Germany won a 2002 World Cup qualifier at Wembley, sparking the resignation of England manager Kevin Keegan. 
 
Germany had also replaced the hapless Erich Ribbeck and, shamed by their Euros exit, had begun a root and branch review of their footballing development structure. 
 
There was a considerable bump in the road when they were hammered 5-1 at home by England in the reverse qualifier in Munich in 2001, but it was the Germans who kicked on to reach the 2002 World Cup final, as England went out in the last 16. 
 
That revolution of their youth system effectively delivered the team that won the 2014 World Cup, as England continued to fail to get past the quarter-finals anywhere. 
 
The teams` last competitive meeting was in the last 16 of the 2010 World Cup and though England fell apart to lose 4-1, there remains a major "what if" consideration after Frank Lampard`s clear goal that would have made it 2-2 early in the second half was ruled not to have crossed the line after bouncing down off the bar. 
 
That decision, just as the one in England`s favour for Geoff Hurst`s goal in 1966 final, will be endlessly discussed along with all the penalty shoot-outs as fans prepare for Tuesday`s game. 
 
Charleroi 2000 may get less of an airing. 
&nbsp;

Amid all the recent recycling of England`s football tournament suffering at the hands of Germany, their Euro 2000 group stage victory in Belgium 21 years ago seems to have slipped from the nation`s collective memory - and with good reason.

Amid all the recent recycling of England`s football tournament suffering at the hands of Germany, their Euro 2000 group stage victory in Belgium 21 years ago seems to have slipped from the nation`s collective memory - and with good reason. Alan Shearer`s second-half goal secured England`s only tournament win over their old rivals since the 1966 World Cup final, but it proved a false dawn and instead did the defeated Germans a lot more long-term good. As England and Germany prepare for Tuesday`s Euro2020 last-16 meeting at Wembley, their historical footballing relationship can effectively be divided into the period before the 68th minute of their 1970 World Cup quarter-final, and after. England had triumphed in the 1966 World Cup final and looked to be cruising into the semi-finals in Mexico four years later via goals by Alan Mullery and Martin Peters in what would have been their eighth win in nine meetings with then-West Germany. However, Franz Beckenbauer and Uwe Seeler levelled the match and Gerd Mueller won it for the then-West Germany in extra-time - and the balance of power shifted seismically. Two years later the Germans knocked England out of the qualifying stage for the 1972 European Championship, which they went on to win, sparking decades of extraordinary success. England were left on the outside looking in, not even making another tournament until the 1980 Euros - again won by West Germany - and when they did start qualifying, making little impact. Finally, in the 1990 World Cup, they made the semi-finals, only to lose to eventual winners Germany on penalties. At Euro96 at Wembley at the same stage it was the same outcome. Four years later the teams were drawn together in the group stage of Euro2000, but both got off to poor starts in the competition as England lost 3-2 to Portugal after being 2-0 up and Germany drew 1-1 with Romania. The meeting in Charleroi proved to be a dire encounter, with one pundit likening it to a fight to the death between the last two dinosaurs on earth. Freshly crowned world champions France, Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands were on a different level despite the presence of the likes of David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Michael Owen and Shearer in the England starting side. Shearer`s 53rd-minute header from a Beckham free kick nevertheless had the nation rejoicing in an unheard of win over the Germans and had them well-placed to advance from the group. That remained the case until the last minute of their final game against Romania when they conceded a last-minute penalty that enabled Romania to snatch a 3-2 win that sent them through at England`s expense. The joy of the win over Germany was immediately forgotten, and the fact that the Germans were hammered 3-0 by Portugal to finish bottom of the group merely left the Charleroi success looking even more irrelevant. Four months later Germany won a 2002 World Cup qualifier at Wembley, sparking the resignation of England manager Kevin Keegan. Germany had also replaced the hapless Erich Ribbeck and, shamed by their Euros exit, had begun a root and branch review of their footballing development structure. There was a considerable bump in the road when they were hammered 5-1 at home by England in the reverse qualifier in Munich in 2001, but it was the Germans who kicked on to reach the 2002 World Cup final, as England went out in the last 16. That revolution of their youth system effectively delivered the team that won the 2014 World Cup, as England continued to fail to get past the quarter-finals anywhere. The teams` last competitive meeting was in the last 16 of the 2010 World Cup and though England fell apart to lose 4-1, there remains a major "what if" consideration after Frank Lampard`s clear goal that would have made it 2-2 early in the second half was ruled not to have crossed the line after bouncing down off the bar. That decision, just as the one in England`s favour for Geoff Hurst`s goal in 1966 final, will be endlessly discussed along with all the penalty shoot-outs as fans prepare for Tuesday`s game. Charleroi 2000 may get less of an airing.

Euro 2020 - England's forgotten Euros win over Germany

Switzerland's Yann Sommer saved France striker Kylian Mbappe's penalty to secure a 5-4 shootout win over the world champions following a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time on Monday to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals where they will meet Spain.

On a memorable evening for Swiss&nbsp;football, the so-called Nati repeatedly beat the odds, coming from 3-1 down with two goals in the final five minutes to force extra time and eventually penalties.

It was Switzerland's first knockout stage victory at a tournament since 1938 and the first time they have made the last eight since the 1954 World Cup which they hosted. They will next face Spain on Friday in St Petersburg.

"Honestly I am still in shock," said Sommer, who became the most capped Swiss keeper with 65 international appearances.

"We showed courage, heart, we left everything out there. When you come back from two goals down against the world champions it is just unbelievable, and then to win on penalties, I could not be prouder of the way we did it."

France, who had started with an unusual three-man defense and lacked any real bite upfront in the first half, looked to be heading for victory when Karim Benzema struck twice in two minutes early in the second half.

He latched on to Mbappe's through ball in the 57th minute to cancel out Switzerland's first-half lead from Haris Seferovic's header.

Benzema then headed home from near the goal-line two minutes later to take his tournament tally to four as France grabbed control of the game only minutes after the Swiss missed a 55th-minute penalty and the chance to go 2-0 up when Hugo Lloris saved Ricardo Rodriguez's spot-kick.

SWISS COMEBACK

By the time Paul Pogba curled a sensational shot into the top corner in the 75th minute to make it 3-1 for France, who had reverted to a four-man backline in the second half, few believed the momentum could shift once more.

"Nobody believed in us anymore at that stage," Sommer said. "But before the game, we had said no matter what happens in the game, it doesn’t matter if we’re down, or if things are going well, we play until the end.

"We felt France had become a bit complacent and maybe thought they had already won it. So we used that to our advantage."

Seferovic sneaked into the box again to head in his second goal with five minutes left and substitute Mario Gavranovic beat Lloris to snatch a 90th-minute equalizer and force extra time after France substitute Kingsley Coman's drive hit the bar.

Olivier Giroud twice came close for France having come off the bench but the game was to be resolved on penalties where Sommer swatted Mbappe's spot-kick away after five Swiss players had scored to earn their first-ever tournament shootout win.

The result means France coach Didier Deschamps will miss out on becoming the first man to win World Cup and Euro titles both as a player and a coach.

"It is my responsibility and I told the players that I assume it," Deschamps, who won the 2018 World Cup with France, said of the shock loss.

"When France wins merit goes always to the players. When things are less good then it is my responsibility. But that's the way sport is. You have to accept it even if it hurts."

Switzerland's Yann Sommer saved France striker Kylian Mbappe's penalty to secure a 5-4 shootout win over the world champions following a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time on Monday to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals where they will meet Spain.

Switzerland's Yann Sommer saved France striker Kylian Mbappe's penalty to secure a 5-4 shootout win over the world champions following a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time on Monday to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals where they will meet Spain. On a memorable evening for Swiss football, the so-called Nati repeatedly beat the odds, coming from 3-1 down with two goals in the final five minutes to force extra time and eventually penalties. It was Switzerland's first knockout stage victory at a tournament since 1938 and the first time they have made the last eight since the 1954 World Cup which they hosted. They will next face Spain on Friday in St Petersburg. "Honestly I am still in shock," said Sommer, who became the most capped Swiss keeper with 65 international appearances. "We showed courage, heart, we left everything out there. When you come back from two goals down against the world champions it is just unbelievable, and then to win on penalties, I could not be prouder of the way we did it." France, who had started with an unusual three-man defense and lacked any real bite upfront in the first half, looked to be heading for victory when Karim Benzema struck twice in two minutes early in the second half. He latched on to Mbappe's through ball in the 57th minute to cancel out Switzerland's first-half lead from Haris Seferovic's header. Benzema then headed home from near the goal-line two minutes later to take his tournament tally to four as France grabbed control of the game only minutes after the Swiss missed a 55th-minute penalty and the chance to go 2-0 up when Hugo Lloris saved Ricardo Rodriguez's spot-kick. SWISS COMEBACK By the time Paul Pogba curled a sensational shot into the top corner in the 75th minute to make it 3-1 for France, who had reverted to a four-man backline in the second half, few believed the momentum could shift once more. "Nobody believed in us anymore at that stage," Sommer said. "But before the game, we had said no matter what happens in the game, it doesn’t matter if we’re down, or if things are going well, we play until the end. "We felt France had become a bit complacent and maybe thought they had already won it. So we used that to our advantage." Seferovic sneaked into the box again to head in his second goal with five minutes left and substitute Mario Gavranovic beat Lloris to snatch a 90th-minute equalizer and force extra time after France substitute Kingsley Coman's drive hit the bar. Olivier Giroud twice came close for France having come off the bench but the game was to be resolved on penalties where Sommer swatted Mbappe's spot-kick away after five Swiss players had scored to earn their first-ever tournament shootout win. The result means France coach Didier Deschamps will miss out on becoming the first man to win World Cup and Euro titles both as a player and a coach. "It is my responsibility and I told the players that I assume it," Deschamps, who won the 2018 World Cup with France, said of the shock loss. "When France wins merit goes always to the players. When things are less good then it is my responsibility. But that's the way sport is. You have to accept it even if it hurts."

Euro 2020: Switzerland beat France on penalties to reach Euro 2020 last eight

In spite of there being an authentic satiate of mouth-watering matches hurled by the notions of the framework in the UEFA Euro 2020 pre-quarterfinals, the one match everybody looked forward to was England versus Germany.&nbsp;

The celebrated history of the England-Germany football contention returns ages and comprises various epic clashes at the most terrific phase of the game. From celebration to distress, from brightness to discussion, this match between two of the behemoths of the game has seen everything.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-englands-forgotten-euros-win-over-germany-394543" hreflang="en">Euro 2020-England's forgotten Euros win over Germany</a>

Both England and Germany have plenty of skilled players in their positions.&nbsp;

<h3>Head-to-Head</h3>

Germany enjoys a minimal upper hand over England to the extent of the head-to-head record is concerned and have won 15 matches out of an aggregate of 32 games played between the two groups. England have overseen 13 triumphs against Germany and can cause inconvenience to their rivals.&nbsp;

The last match between the two European heavyweights occurred in 2017 and finished in a 0-0 impasse. The two teams have gone through advances as of late and should demonstrate their determination in this match.&nbsp;

<h3>England vs Germany</h3>

England have always lost a Euro knock-out match inside an hour and a half and will be determined to remedying their course against Germany. England have additionally lost three of the four knock-out matches that have been settled on penalties, with their past rout broadly incurred by Italy at Euro 2012.&nbsp;

Harry Kane had a brilliant 2020-21 season with Tottenham. The striker scored 23 goals in 35 matches and dominated the Premier League Golden Boot. Nonetheless, he has battled at Euro 2020 and is yet to score or record a help up until this point.&nbsp;

With Harry Kane not scoring for England, Raheem Sterling has demonstrated to be the player who can have an effect at Euro 2020. Gareth Southgate will trust he will do so again against Germany.&nbsp;

Germany have neglected to keep a clean sheet in their last eight games in international tournaments. &nbsp;

As Germany's top scorer at Euro 2020, Kai Havertz will be a player to pay special mind to in the impending game against England. Having begun in each and every game so far, Kai Havertz is plainly a crucial part of Germany's team and is probably going to keep his spot in the starting XI on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Toni Kroos will again call the shots in midfield for Germany in this UEFA Euro 2020 conflict. He will hope to release Robin Gosens or Joshua Kimmich down the wings. He has again amassed a 90% pass percentage regardless of this not being a vintage German team.

<h3>Prediction</h3>

England have more force right now, yet question marks over Gareth Southgate's framework and strategic nous remain, especially against significant level rivals.&nbsp;

All things considered, Germany are not the power side it used to be, and this ought to be a decent possibility for England to profit by a squeaking German defense.

This vows to be a nail-biting clash between two of Euro 2020s toughest groups, and it'll presumably be chosen by one goal, best case scenario.

In spite of there being an authentic satiate of mouth-watering matches hurled by the notions of the framework in the UEFA Euro 2020 pre-quarterfinals, the one match everybody looked forward to was England versus Germany.

In spite of there being an authentic satiate of mouth-watering matches hurled by the notions of the framework in the UEFA Euro 2020 pre-quarterfinals, the one match everybody looked forward to was England versus Germany. The celebrated history of the England-Germany football contention returns ages and comprises various epic clashes at the most terrific phase of the game. From celebration to distress, from brightness to discussion, this match between two of the behemoths of the game has seen everything. ALSO READ: Euro 2020-England's forgotten Euros win over Germany Both England and Germany have plenty of skilled players in their positions. Head-to-Head Germany enjoys a minimal upper hand over England to the extent of the head-to-head record is concerned and have won 15 matches out of an aggregate of 32 games played between the two groups. England have overseen 13 triumphs against Germany and can cause inconvenience to their rivals. The last match between the two European heavyweights occurred in 2017 and finished in a 0-0 impasse. The two teams have gone through advances as of late and should demonstrate their determination in this match. England vs Germany England have always lost a Euro knock-out match inside an hour and a half and will be determined to remedying their course against Germany. England have additionally lost three of the four knock-out matches that have been settled on penalties, with their past rout broadly incurred by Italy at Euro 2012. Harry Kane had a brilliant 2020-21 season with Tottenham. The striker scored 23 goals in 35 matches and dominated the Premier League Golden Boot. Nonetheless, he has battled at Euro 2020 and is yet to score or record a help up until this point. With Harry Kane not scoring for England, Raheem Sterling has demonstrated to be the player who can have an effect at Euro 2020. Gareth Southgate will trust he will do so again against Germany. Germany have neglected to keep a clean sheet in their last eight games in international tournaments. As Germany's top scorer at Euro 2020, Kai Havertz will be a player to pay special mind to in the impending game against England. Having begun in each and every game so far, Kai Havertz is plainly a crucial part of Germany's team and is probably going to keep his spot in the starting XI on Tuesday. Toni Kroos will again call the shots in midfield for Germany in this UEFA Euro 2020 conflict. He will hope to release Robin Gosens or Joshua Kimmich down the wings. He has again amassed a 90% pass percentage regardless of this not being a vintage German team. Prediction England have more force right now, yet question marks over Gareth Southgate's framework and strategic nous remain, especially against significant level rivals. All things considered, Germany are not the power side it used to be, and this ought to be a decent possibility for England to profit by a squeaking German defense. This vows to be a nail-biting clash between two of Euro 2020s toughest groups, and it'll presumably be chosen by one goal, best case scenario.

Euro 2020: England and Germany bolt horns in a mouth-watering clash at Wembley Stadium

Portugal set out to defend their European Championship title with a far better squad than five years ago in France but this time they ultimately proved less adept at chasing games than grinding out results.

Fernando Santos' side bowed out of the tournament earlier than they would have liked in losing 1-0 to Belgium in the last-16 but they did not go out quietly, peppering Thibaut Courtois' goal with shots until the end and hitting the post.

Yet they lacked a cutting edge which might have disappointed fans given the assortment of world stars they had on the pitch, including Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes, 126-million-euro man Joao Felix and Cristiano Ronaldo.

As in their 4-2 defeat to Germany in the group stage, they were incapable of finding their way back into the game and mainly resorted to hopeful long-range efforts, only troubling Courtois a couple of times despite having 23 shots.

Critics can certainly point the finger at Santos, a reactive coach who built his reputation in international&nbsp;football&nbsp;by helping Greece punch above their weight.

After leading Portugal to their first major trophy with often cagey tactics and astute game management, his side never really took a step forward and looked uncomfortable once they were no longer the underdogs.

They also seemed to lack the unity and work rate of their predecessors, as Santos alluded to after the heavy defeat to Germany when he remarked: "That was not the Portugal we all know".

Pepe, one of the few surviving members of the Euro 2016 side, latched on to a similar theme when he said: "We need to be what we have always been, a combative team which plays with solidarity".

In the Euro 2020 group stage alone, Portugal conceded more goals than in their victorious Euro 2016 campaign.

But to be fair to Santos, his side was given a far harder draw this time around, meeting the last two world champions in France and Germany in Group F in addition to gritty Hungary.

They could only finish third and had to face Belgium, who 2018 World Cup semi-finalists and ranked number one in the world.

Their unforgiving path contrasted with 2016, when they met Iceland, Austria, and Hungary in their group and then faced Poland, Croatia and Wales in the knockout stage before riding their luck in the final to beat hosts France 1-0 in extra-time.

Their winning goal in Paris was a hit-and-hope shot from Eder and five years on in Seville, the shoe was on the other foot as Thorgan Hazard's piledriver proved the difference, ending Portugal's reign as European champions.

Many of the players who fell short here will get another chance at next year's World Cup in Qatar and Santos will hope they will be wiser from the experience and better equipped to break down teams as good as them.

Portugal set out to defend their European Championship title with a far better squad than five years ago in France but this time they ultimately proved less adept at chasing games than grinding out results.

Portugal set out to defend their European Championship title with a far better squad than five years ago in France but this time they ultimately proved less adept at chasing games than grinding out results. Fernando Santos' side bowed out of the tournament earlier than they would have liked in losing 1-0 to Belgium in the last-16 but they did not go out quietly, peppering Thibaut Courtois' goal with shots until the end and hitting the post. Yet they lacked a cutting edge which might have disappointed fans given the assortment of world stars they had on the pitch, including Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes, 126-million-euro man Joao Felix and Cristiano Ronaldo. As in their 4-2 defeat to Germany in the group stage, they were incapable of finding their way back into the game and mainly resorted to hopeful long-range efforts, only troubling Courtois a couple of times despite having 23 shots. Critics can certainly point the finger at Santos, a reactive coach who built his reputation in international football by helping Greece punch above their weight. After leading Portugal to their first major trophy with often cagey tactics and astute game management, his side never really took a step forward and looked uncomfortable once they were no longer the underdogs. They also seemed to lack the unity and work rate of their predecessors, as Santos alluded to after the heavy defeat to Germany when he remarked: "That was not the Portugal we all know". Pepe, one of the few surviving members of the Euro 2016 side, latched on to a similar theme when he said: "We need to be what we have always been, a combative team which plays with solidarity". In the Euro 2020 group stage alone, Portugal conceded more goals than in their victorious Euro 2016 campaign. But to be fair to Santos, his side was given a far harder draw this time around, meeting the last two world champions in France and Germany in Group F in addition to gritty Hungary. They could only finish third and had to face Belgium, who 2018 World Cup semi-finalists and ranked number one in the world. Their unforgiving path contrasted with 2016, when they met Iceland, Austria, and Hungary in their group and then faced Poland, Croatia and Wales in the knockout stage before riding their luck in the final to beat hosts France 1-0 in extra-time. Their winning goal in Paris was a hit-and-hope shot from Eder and five years on in Seville, the shoe was on the other foot as Thorgan Hazard's piledriver proved the difference, ending Portugal's reign as European champions. Many of the players who fell short here will get another chance at next year's World Cup in Qatar and Santos will hope they will be wiser from the experience and better equipped to break down teams as good as them.

Football: Early exit shows Portugal better at being hunted than hunter

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday.

Holes powered home a 68th-minute opener after being set up by Tomas Kalas, as the Dutch watched on hopelessly in their own penalty area.

Schick made sure of the Czechs' surprise success with a close-range finish 10 minutes from full-time, his fourth goal of the tournament, in front of a capacity crowd that provided a deafening wall of noise for most of an absorbing last-16 contest.

"They were the favourites in this game, it is an unreal feeling to beat such a team 2-0," said goalscorer Holes.

"They were better with the ball, we struggled, but thanks to our team performance, we did not give them much space."

It was a calamitous outcome for the Dutch, who imploded after Matthijs de Ligt was sent off for a cynical handball 10 minutes into the second half, and they will now undergo some serious soul searching.

De Ligt was sent off after a VAR review by Russian referee Sergei Karasev after punching away the ball as he tumbled to the ground in a tussle with Schick.

"We lost the game actually because of any action by me. We were in control before that and I feel responsible," an emotional De Ligt told Dutch television.

MOMENT OF MADNESS

Before that pivotal moment, the Dutch had looked to get on top of their opponents with their overlapping runs and passing ability, but a moment of madness from their 21-year-old centre back swung the balance of the contest towards the Czechs, who needed no second invitation to grab the initiative.

The Czechs are now through to face a quarter-final clash with Denmark in Baku on Saturday, turning around their Euro 2020 fortunes having only reached the knockout phase after finishing third in their group.

The Dutch could have gone ahead before being reduced to 10 men, with fullbacks Denzel Dumfries and Patrick van Aanholt creating several chances with their overlapping runs.

Yet striker Memphis Depay looked out of sorts and Donyell Malen hesitated with several opportunities -- no more so than when sprinting through the Czech defence to go one on one with Tomas Vaclik, before having the ball snatched away from his feet as he tried to round the keeper.

There was an opportunity for the Czechs when stand-in captain Tomas Soucek glanced a difficult header wide in the 22nd minute and Antonin Barak blasted past the target from a tight angle 16 minutes later.

Once De Ligt was dismissed, the Czechs assumed control and the goal came as the Dutch defence was caught static by a set-piece that saw Kalas climb above the defence to head back for Holes to score, with veteran Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg caught in no man’s land.

The Dutch then sought to throw on some attacking artillery but quickly wilted in the searing heat as Schick made it 2-0 with Holes pulling the ball back for the striker to finish clinically.

"It was an off day, we didn't handle the pressure in midfield and couldn't create our own space," said Netherlands captain Giorgino Wijnaldum.

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday.

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday. Holes powered home a 68th-minute opener after being set up by Tomas Kalas, as the Dutch watched on hopelessly in their own penalty area. Schick made sure of the Czechs' surprise success with a close-range finish 10 minutes from full-time, his fourth goal of the tournament, in front of a capacity crowd that provided a deafening wall of noise for most of an absorbing last-16 contest. "They were the favourites in this game, it is an unreal feeling to beat such a team 2-0," said goalscorer Holes. "They were better with the ball, we struggled, but thanks to our team performance, we did not give them much space." It was a calamitous outcome for the Dutch, who imploded after Matthijs de Ligt was sent off for a cynical handball 10 minutes into the second half, and they will now undergo some serious soul searching. De Ligt was sent off after a VAR review by Russian referee Sergei Karasev after punching away the ball as he tumbled to the ground in a tussle with Schick. "We lost the game actually because of any action by me. We were in control before that and I feel responsible," an emotional De Ligt told Dutch television. MOMENT OF MADNESS Before that pivotal moment, the Dutch had looked to get on top of their opponents with their overlapping runs and passing ability, but a moment of madness from their 21-year-old centre back swung the balance of the contest towards the Czechs, who needed no second invitation to grab the initiative. The Czechs are now through to face a quarter-final clash with Denmark in Baku on Saturday, turning around their Euro 2020 fortunes having only reached the knockout phase after finishing third in their group. The Dutch could have gone ahead before being reduced to 10 men, with fullbacks Denzel Dumfries and Patrick van Aanholt creating several chances with their overlapping runs. Yet striker Memphis Depay looked out of sorts and Donyell Malen hesitated with several opportunities -- no more so than when sprinting through the Czech defence to go one on one with Tomas Vaclik, before having the ball snatched away from his feet as he tried to round the keeper. There was an opportunity for the Czechs when stand-in captain Tomas Soucek glanced a difficult header wide in the 22nd minute and Antonin Barak blasted past the target from a tight angle 16 minutes later. Once De Ligt was dismissed, the Czechs assumed control and the goal came as the Dutch defence was caught static by a set-piece that saw Kalas climb above the defence to head back for Holes to score, with veteran Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg caught in no man’s land. The Dutch then sought to throw on some attacking artillery but quickly wilted in the searing heat as Schick made it 2-0 with Holes pulling the ball back for the striker to finish clinically. "It was an off day, we didn't handle the pressure in midfield and couldn't create our own space," said Netherlands captain Giorgino Wijnaldum.

Football: Czech Republic cash in with surprise last-16 win over Netherlands

football-news

Football News, News on Football News, stories on Football News, articles on Football News, Football News stories at Wion, Football News news, Football News latest news

football news