DFB U21 celebrates dramatic quarter-final win against Italy!
1. FC Köln celebrates reaching the U21 European Championship semi-finals with Eric Martel and Jan Thielmann after a thrilling win against Italy.

DFB U21 celebrates dramatic quarter-final win against Italy!
The DFB U21 qualified for the semi-finals of the U21 European Championship with an exciting 3-2 win after extra time against Italy. Particular attention is paid to the players Eric Martel and Jan Thielmann from 1. FC Köln, who can now hope for the title. It was a dramatic game in which Martel shone as captain and played a key role in the late equalizer before Germany finally secured victory in extra time. Overall, the match was characterized by intense moments and the spectators were able to look forward to a real football festival. This is what the Come-on-FC website reports.
Germany started the game strongly but struggled to create clear chances. Nick Woltemade tried first, but his shot was harmless. Instead, Italy became more dangerous, with scoring opportunities from Matteo Prati and Wilfried Gnonto. The Italian team scored the opening goal in the second half through Luca Koleosho. But the DFB team did not allow themselves to be discouraged and equalized with a header from Woltemade after a corner. However, the drama of the game picked up pace when the Italians were punished mercilessly with yellow cards and brand new traffic light cards ended up with Gnonto and Mattia Zanotti.
Decisive moments
In the final phase of regular time, a free kick made it 2-2 by Giuseppe Ambrosino, which was scored after a foul by Martel. But in extra time, Germany took control and benefited from the double majority. Merlin Röhl scored the much-celebrated winning goal shortly before the end of extra time. Martel, who had to leave the field due to groin pain, was still active in the celebratory celebration. Jan Thielmann was not used, but also has big goals.
The starting situation for the U21s is promising as they can now prepare for the semi-finals. Before the European Championships, the DFB selection competed in the preliminary round against Slovenia, the Czech Republic and England and, after an outstanding team spirit, has the opportunity to fight for the title in the quarter-finals. The group games were spread out over the year, and the coverage of the broadcasts on SAT.1 was also well received. Germany is also likely to be very popular for the final, which will take place in Bratislava. You can read this information on the official FC Köln fan page.
How will the U21s fare in the semi-finals? The anticipation for the rest of the tournament is increasing and the fans are firmly expecting a great success for Martel, Thielmann and the entire team. The eyes are on the next steps and the hopes rest on the coveted European title. For all the details and news about the U21 European Championships, it's worth taking a look at Kicker page, which always offers up-to-date information.