Having set the European Championships alight over the previous two weeks, it took a penalty shoot-out winner from Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas to knock the Italians out of the tournament and progress to the semi-finals against giant killers Russia.

After a dull first 90 minutes, the game started to liven up in extra time and both teams started to open up and play expansive football. However, 120 minutes couldn't separate the two footballing super powers.

Finally, the self-labeled chokers of international football finally won a penalty shootout on June 22. Spain had been knocked out on penalties in three prior tournaments on this exact date: USA '94, Euro '04 and World Cup '06.

The star studded Spanish will now play Guus Hiddinks' Russian side next Thursday, who turned over the previously unflappable Dutch in extra time.

The winner of that game will play either Turkey or pre-Tournament Favourites Germany, who will contest the other semi final.