Merlin Rohl scored in the 117th minute to secure Germany a 3–2 victory over Italy and a spot in the semi-finals of the U21 European Championship.

Both teams struggled to find their rhythm in this tense match.

The match remained goalless in the second half, but Koleosho, who had been the standout attacking talent in the first half, inspired Italian celebrations shortly before the hour mark by racing up the pitch, cutting inside, and striking the ball into the net off the post.

Ten minutes later, Rohdén's header from a corner was saved as Germany searched for an equaliser, but Desplanches could not prevent Woltemade from scoring with a header from the resulting corner.

Italy suffered another setback in the 81^(st) minute when Gnonto was sent off for sliding in on Rosenfelder, having already received a yellow card for a challenge on Eric Martel.

Germany capitalised on their numerical advantage when Woltemade headed Rohl’s cross towards Nelson Weiper, who clinically picked out the top corner.

Despite Gli Azzurrini looking destined to bow out, with Zanotti seeing two yellow cards for dissent in the 90^(th) minute, Giuseppe Ambrosino produced a magical free kick to force extra time.

However, Italian hearts were broken in the 117th minute when Rohl made the most of the space afforded to him by picking out the bottom corner and sending Germany through to the semi-final to face France.

Gli Azzurrini were knocked out despite going the entire U21 European Championship without losing in the regular 90 minutes.