England’s half-century wait for a major title continues as last night Italy emerged as the Euro 2020 champions. Italy won the Championship for the second time by beating England 3-2 on penalties, as the match finished 1-1 after extra time.
#Euro2020: Italian players were greeted with cheers as they returned to Rome after their #Euro2020 triumph over England.
Read more here: https://t.co/2ujSvFzd5A pic.twitter.com/RvbzVQOoGC
— Sky News (@SkyNews) July 12, 2021
The final was England’s first major championship game in 55 years, after defeats in 1990, 1996, 1998, 2004, 2006 and 2012. Moreover, the match was the first European Championship final to be decided on penalties since 1976. In Italy’s case, the team failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, yet are now unbeaten in 34 games and European champions.
This has been some journey. As a nation, we were united in a belief that we can achieve something special after the hardest of years.
It wasn't meant to be, but this team is just getting started. They will continue to make you proud, both on and off the pitch. pic.twitter.com/vDaTXvo6cH
— England (@England) July 11, 2021
The three England players who missed penalties during the finals, Bukayo Saka (19), Marcus Rashford (23), and Jadon Sancho (21), have been subject to racial abuse online. The abuse was called out by, England manager, Gareth Southgate.Â
The three #ENG players who missed penalty kicks in the #EURO2020 final were targeted with racial abuse online.
The FA says it's "appalled" in condemning the despicable acts of hate: https://t.co/55ci0lfnT7 pic.twitter.com/VHAuEXnyYf
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) July 12, 2021
19-year-old Saka has never taken a penalty for his club team, Arsenal. Nonetheless, was given the responsibility of taking the fifth kick in the shootout.
Jadon Sancho, Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford being racially abused on social media. And this is why #ENG players will continue to take a knee. Also, Twitter and Instagram have to be quicker and stronger to stop these hate crimes on their platforms.
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) July 11, 2021