Casillas to the rescue as youthful Spain eliminate world champions Italy from Euro 2008
June 23, 2008
For the right to play Russia in the semifinal of Euro 2008 on the June 26, both Spain and the world champions Italy played to a goalless draw at the end of regulation and extra time in close encounter that saw the winner being determined by penalty kicks.
It was to be a night for a goalkeeper and Real Madrid and Spanish captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas saw his team through with two saves that denied the Azzurri from progressing to the semifinal of Euro 2008. Italy’s Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Di Natale were denied by Casillas who also saw his teammate Daniel Guiza miss his spot kick. The Spanish won 4-2 on penalties to set up a mouthwatering clash with Euro 2008 surprise semifinalists Russia.
The Spanish are making their first major appearance in a semifinal in 24 years; 1984 being the last time they went to a major semifinal. Italy’s aspirations of adding Euro 2008 championship title to their world cup triumph saw their dreams deferred. The Italians have not lost a game in a major tournament in regulation time for the last 20 years, penalties and golden goals have proved to be their down fall.
Written by Kerron · Filed Under Knockout Stages, Players
Tagged: Antonio Di Natale, Daniel Guiza, Daniele De Rossi, Euro 2008 semifinal, Iker Casillas, Italy Euro 2008, Spain Euro 2008
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