Match Analysis: Germany 1-2 Italy

In perhaps one of the biggest shocks in recent years, Italy have advanced to the final of Euro 2012 thanks to a 2-1 victory over Germany in tonight's semi-final.

Two goals from Mario Balotelli in the opening half gave the Italians something to hold on to, and they might have added to that tally with a series of counter-attacks late on.

For Germany, their poor run against Italy continues. Meanwhile, their record of consecutive wins has also been reset – and they must now focus on their qualification campaign for the 2014 World Cup.

Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of football between the two:

Germany statistics:
Shots 17
On target 8
Possession 53%
Corners 14
Fouls 12

Italy statistics:
Shots 11
On target 5
Possession 47%
Corners 0
Fouls 17

Was the result fair?

I would have to say yes. Germany started the match with so much purpose and energy, and it looked like it would be their evening. However, the Italians grew into the encounter and defended superbly after gaining the lead. This wasn't the same Germany we have seen in the tournament thus far, but credit must go to the Italians for that.

Germany's performance

They never really got going. There were question marks over the inclusion of Toni Kroos in the middle – and he never got into the match. Their defence, which is usually so tight, was also exposed on a number of occasions with simple long balls through the middle. In addition, their big players, aside from Mesut Ozil, simply did not turn up.

Italy's performance

Italy were brilliant this evening – and they needed to be. On the face it, Germany are simply a better side than Italy. However, Cesare Prandelli must take huge praise for the way he set up his team. They were fantastic in defence, while Balotelli stole the show with two fabulous goals.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Andrea Pirlo: It would have been quite easy to give it to Balotelli after his double. However, the Juventus midfielder was just magic again this evening. Composure and wonderful ability on the ball – he has been my player of the tournament this summer.

Referee performance

Stephane Lannoy had a fairly straightforward night. He rightly awarded Germany a penalty in the latter stages, while he let the game flow. An all-round good showing from the Frenchman.

Biggest gaffe of the match

This doesn't just go for tonight's match, this goes for the tournament. Why wasn't Mario Gotze given an opportunity by Germany? He possesses the kind of tools that were needed to unlock the stern Italian defence.

What next?

Germany: That's it for the Germans as their dire record against Italy continues. They crash out at the semi-final stage and will be left with questions to answer.

Italy: Italy march onto the final where they will face Spain on July 1. It will be fascinating to see how they combat the Spanish movement. Wouldn't it be so like football if they managed to win it?