Europe's two most successful nations, Germany and Italy facing off for a berth in the semi-finals of Euro 2016. The Germans, the current world champs, were looking to make it to the last four for the sixth straight time, and also beat the Azzurri for the first time at a major event.

Germany 7 - Italy 6

Italy on the other hand, who many in their home country called the worst side in a half century were looking to continue their run, and add another scalp to their impressive tournament, that saw them beat the second ranked team in the world -- Belgium, and dispose of two-time champs Spain.

The teams would be scoreless at the half -- but Germany break the ice in the 65th minute when Jonas Hector poked a cross over to Mesut Ozil, who beat two defenders before slotting the ball past Gigi Buffon to make it 1-nil.

Italy were given a penalty in 78th minute after Jerome Boateng's clumsy handball in the area. Leonardo Bonucci steps up and fires past Manuel Neuer into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.

It would remain 1-1 after 90 minutes, and extra time. That meant a shootout, and this was anything but clinical as German big names - Thomas Muller, Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger failed to score, neither did Italy's Simone Zaza, Bonucci, and Graziano Pelle in the first five rounds.

This would get extended -- and we move to the ninth round, and Italy's Matteo Darmian fails to convert. That allow Hector to end the breathtaking duel with a low shot which was inches away from being saved by Buffon. Germany prevail on kicks to advance to the semis and beat Italy for the first time at a major tournament.

"Well of course it was a dramatic game 'til the very last shot. I have seen such situations, like in 2006 against Argentina. It was a game on a very high tactical level, from both sides. I think we were superior on the pitch. The Italians strength is in the midfield, but we did not allow them to use their strength. The penalty was unfortunate, I did not think the Italians would score during the game," said Germany Coach Joachim Loew.

"It was a tough match from every perspective, we definitely showed heart to overcome the obstacles. I think the players left a significant mark on this tournament and shown that with desire and hard work you can achieve things nobody thought possible. It is a shame to go out like this, on kicks. We really believed in this dream but we know that football can bring you joy and sadness, but the players can go home and they can be proud of their effort," said Italy Coach Antonio Conte.