Joachim Low: Germany players shed tears

Germany manager Joachim Low has spoken of his squad's heartbreak following their 2-1 Euro 2012 semi-final defeat to Italy.

The former Fenerbahce boss said that several players shed tears in the dressing room after the game.

"In the locker room the tears are flowing. It is as quiet as a mouse in the locker room, no-one is saying a word," he said.

"We are very disappointed, but we should not make the mistake of questioning everything. The team played a great tournament."

Germany went down to two first-half goals from Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli, with a late penalty from Mesut Ozil serving only as consolation.

Low went on to praise his team's second-half display, but rued the mistakes that led to Balotelli's goals.

"The goals were scored because of mistakes in our defence. But the [team] showed their heart during the second half," he added. "Italy were 2-0 in front [at half-time] so it is hard to turn the match around."

Italy will take on champions Spain in the final on Sunday.