For most of today’s first Euro 2020 semifinal, Italy looked desperate. That’s despite having an early lead; it came somewhat against the run of play, and once Spain was trailing they really kicked into overdrive trying to find an equalizer.
Italy, though, has a proud tradition of parking the bus and playing for a draw or to protect a lead, and they managed to do so for an admirably long time until a late Spain equalizer forced extra soccer. Neither team, at that point, seemed interested in risking an effort for a winner, which meant things came down to penalties.
With Italy missing one and Spain failing to convert on two, Jorginho had the chance to win it for Italy. ESPN’s Taylor Twellman predicted exactly what was going to happen, too, with Jorginho’s trademark penalty hop taking the keeper out of the play, and allowing him to slot it home comfortably.
Yeah, no big deal, just the coolest penalty ever in a massively huge spot in front of a global audience, may as well do it.
Italy will now face the winner of tomorrow’s Denmark-England match on Sunday.
About Jay Rigdon
Jay is a columnist at Awful Announcing. He is not a strong swimmer. He is probably talking to a dog in a silly voice at this very moment.