Italy continues dominant Euro 2020 run with 2-1 win over Belgium in quarterfinal

Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Insigne found the back of the net in the first half and Italy held off Belgium’s late attacks in a 2-1 victory to advance to the Euro 2020 semifinal round. Belgium’s golden generation will have to wait to claim an international trophy while Italy’s young guns are still in the running for the big prize.

Italy was getting more bets in the match, according to DraftKings Sportsbook, but Belgium was receiving more money from the public. These were two of the favorites to win the competition heading into the knockout round and many found it unfortunate they had to meet in the quarterfinal due to the way the bracket played out.

Barella got the scoring started after the referee allowed play to continue despite an Italy player down on the pitch in the box. Barella blasted the shot past Thibaut Courtois to give the Azzurri a 1-0 lead.

Insigne’s beautiful curler doubled Italy’s advantage, but Belgium caught a fortunate break with a penalty late in the first half. Romelu Lukaku converted the spot kick to cut the deficit in half heading into the locker room.

Belgium missed several great chances in the second half attempting to find an equalizer, but Italy’s defense held strong. The Azzurri will meet Spain in the Euro 2020 semifinal, a rematch of the 2012 Euro final. Italy has yet to lose in the tournament and has won 13 straight international fixtures after defeating Belgium.

Italy’s semifinal match against Spain will take place Tuesday, July 6 at 3 p.m. ET.