James Tyler: And with that, goodnight, one and all! See you for the semis! Spain v. Portugal and Germany v. Italy!

James Tyler: And many, many, many thanks again for taking part today. Wouldn't have made it through without you all.

James Tyler: In the interim, find us all on Twitter:
@JamesTylerESPN
@jeffreycarlisle
@rogbennett
@ESPNStatsInfo

James Tyler: We will have live chats for both semis and the final. So look out for those too!

James Tyler: Alright, must end this England sadness/Italian glory ride. Need to help with the postgame. Look for our wrap-ups and analysis on ESPNFC.com tonight, and forever more!

James Tyler: We shall see, Tim. Hard to argue with anything Prandelli has done at Euro 2012. He's on a charmed run, and rightly so.

James Tyler: I thought he was forever a threat today. Despite missing some chances, fully justified his inclusion.

James Tyler: It's all hindsight, jimjackjose. The same tactics got England to this point.

James Tyler: Yes! Put that on, pronto. The Cascadia Cup rivals, along with Vancouver. Magic MLS rivalry. On ESPN, live!

James Tyler: I think so too, Brett. But what would I know. I thought Italy would win 2-1 today!

James Tyler: No, Nick. I mean of course!

James Tyler: Indeed, Jeff. What a fun note about the semis. Now, I must go and "dry my eyes"

Jeff Carlisle: Those two groups were the Group of Death (B) and the other Group of Death (C).

James Tyler: I will say that there will be live chats with the ESPN gang for both semi finals and the showpiece final on July 1. So there's that.

James Tyler: Not sure yet, Coach. Time will tell :)

James Tyler: Interesting note, PirloFlop.

James Tyler: Yep, I'm (amazingly) not too crushed by this. Penalties are somewhat fair. I think. Might change my mind on that later but for now, full credit to Prandelli and Italy. Superbly done.

James Tyler: Likely, John, Young asked to take it. PKs not always preordained by managers. Players will step forward and volunteer. Not every player has the stones to take a PK.

James Tyler: That, in a nutshell, is everything brilliant and upsetting about soccer.

James Tyler: Think Diamanti's did, actually. :)

James Tyler: No dispute there, ANC.

James Tyler: Indeed. 50,000 shots on goal, all of them wide, but smacked four in when it counted from 12 yards.

Jeff Carlisle: Tough way for England to go out, but Italy was the better side. Justice was done.

James Tyler: Better team today by a mile.

James Tyler: Wow. Amazing scenes in Kiev. Italy wins 4-2 on penalties to continue English despair.

James Tyler: HE SCORES! ITALY WINS! 4-2 ON PENALTIES!

James Tyler: Diamanti up for Italy...

James Tyler: Miserable. Miserable shot. Miserable.

James Tyler: NEXT PK CAN WIN IT FOR ITALY.

James Tyler: Soft shot. Low to Buffon's left. He smothers it with ease.

James Tyler: SAVED BY BUFFON!

James Tyler: Up next for England: Cole.

James Tyler: Gently taps it in! Hart dives the wrong way.

James Tyler: Nocerino up for Italy.

James Tyler: A miserable game capped by a miserable PK. Buffon went the wrong way but he blasted it against the bar!

James Tyler: OFF THE WOODWORK!

James Tyler: Ashley Young up for England.

James Tyler: PANENKA TIME! Chips it in cheekily. God, I love England but I might just love Pirlo more.

James Tyler: Looks as well-rested as he did before the game.

James Tyler: Up next for Italy: Andrea "Awesome" Pirlo.

James Tyler: Hit at middling height, nearly upper 90.

James Tyler: IN! Buffon dives the wrong way!

James Tyler: England's second PK from Wayne Rooney....

James Tyler: Tried to place it inside the post but off target.

James Tyler: WIDE FROM MONTOLIVO! England with an early edge. Oh god oh god oh god.

James Tyler: Montolivo up for Italy.... MISSES! WIDE LEFT!!!!

James Tyler: SCORES! Snuck it past Buffon. Low shot. Risky. Just got in.

James Tyler: Gerrard up for England. Ice in his veins. Maybe.

James Tyler: SCORES! Hart guessed the right way but it's superbly placed.

James Tyler: Balotelli up first for Italy as the Azzurri shoots first.

James Tyler: Alright, apologies if I miss a few comments. PKs on tap...

James Tyler: No, Will. Please, no.

James Tyler: Good point, Jesse. First 0-0 of Euro 2012!

James Tyler: infinity

James Tyler: Don't say it, Morty!

James Tyler: MJ, I don't think the English fans or media will care. Heroism will be the front page story.

ESPN Stats and Info: Gigi Buffon has saved 1 of 9 penalties in his two major tournament PK shootouts with Italy. This is Joe Hart's first PK shootout with England, but he has saved 2 of 7 penalties for Manchester City over the last two seasons in league play.

Jeff Carlisle: England have made some great defensive plays there ugh, Terry's first half block being one example. But Italy should have done better.

James Tyler: I'm gassed. Thanks to everyone for keeping us all going!

James Tyler: Buffon vs. Hart.

James Tyler: PENALTIES ON THE WAY...

James Tyler: (Grabs Inhaler)

James Tyler: Rooney is fouled by Marchisio in midfield. That might well do it. Free kick, England.

James Tyler: Another Azzurri cross from the right is cleared. Just.

James Tyler: LAST MINUTE OF EXTRA TIME.

James Tyler: Foul called as Gerrard fouls Diamanti. The ex-West Ham winger has been lively for the Azzurri.

James Tyler: Italy's 315th shot on goal today.

James Tyler: Long range shot by Montolivo is wide.

James Tyler: Maggio booms another cross in but it's overhit.

James Tyler: I think he's utterly exhausted. The entire England team is.

James Tyler: So, let's dare to think about who's taking the PKs.

ESPN Stats and Info: Maggio has 12 touches in the attacking third in extra time, more than any player on England.

Jeff Carlisle: Resolute defending, bad finishing by Italy.

James Tyler: Corner for Italy. Diamanti swings it in, it misses the crowd. Goal kick.

James Tyler: Again comes the Azzurri down the right.

Jeff Carlisle: Maggio has been much more aggressive getting forward in extra time.

James Tyler: (hyperventilates)

James Tyler: Et voila, Jwalk.

James Tyler: Balotelli plays it wide for Diamanti, who tricks his way into room for a cross, but Nocerino is behind the last defender so his header into the roof of the net doesn't count!

Jeff Carlisle: Good call.

James Tyler: GOAL FOR ITALY! BUT IT IS OFFSIDE!

James Tyler: Try thousandth, AJB.

James Tyler: Seven minutes of extra time. Still Italy presses, all the possession. Maggio's cross falls right to Balotelli but he has no clue! Cleared. Hoofed upfield. Breathe...

James Tyler: Chance! Balzaretti's near post cross is swept wide by Diamanti! Should have done better. He knows it. We know it.

James Tyler: Maggio's shot is blocked by Ashley Cole. Still, Italy threatens. Eight minutes left...

James Tyler: Balotelli hoofs it over the bar. Silly, Mario.

ESPN Stats and Info: And that remains true.

ESPN Stats and Info: Andrea Pirlo has this tournament's only goal from a direct free kick.

James Tyler: Carroll fouls Marchisio. Another set piece for Italy inside England's half. Seems too far out for a shot but you never know...

James Tyler: Just enjoy this one, Van, before talking semifinals.

James Tyler: 10 minutes of this remaining.

James Tyler: Free kick swung in but cleared by Lescott. Pirlo flicks in another cross but Carroll meets it first and nods away.

James Tyler: Maggio upended by Ashley Young near the edge of the England penalty area. Dinked the ball past and was blocked from getting to it.

James Tyler: Neither side has any subs left. Ashley Young might need a cane to finish this game.

Jeff Carlisle: Too late jim, Italy has used all of its subs.

James Tyler: Diamanti tries to replicate his earlier post-shot but it's curled well wide.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy's 27 chances created are the most by a team in a single game at this tournament.

James Tyler: Maggio's cross is cleared. Still, he's showing his worth; with Ashley Cole so exhausted, a fresh wing-back is smart from Prandelli.

James Tyler: I like the sound of that, Will.

James Tyler: Keep shooting. England looks too tired to counter attack. Just keep putting the ball in the box and testing Hart.

James Tyler: Fifteen more minutes. I need a sponge, some smelling salts and the wisdom of Burgess Meredith to see this chat through to its conclusion.

James Tyler: We're off again!

James Tyler: Listen to that crowd. Not showing any signs of fatigue as the teams reset for the final 15 minutes...

James Tyler: He learned that trick from Arjen Robben.

James Tyler: Don't like that, John. It ends with England losing.

James Tyler: Ashley Young could use an IV drip.

James Tyler: But that means they'd be good on PKs, Fitz.

James Tyler: Chance! Walcott worms his way free on the right, a far post cross is nodded back across goal by Carroll but the ball was already out.

James Tyler: For those wondering: I lived in England until I was 18.

James Tyler: Just a few seconds left in the first period of extra time.

James Tyler: Pirlo very busy in holding up possession around the box. Italy still seeking an opening.

James Tyler: Indeed! What a moment. I was still a teenager. The lager flowed like a river. Glorious. But what a different Spain side back then....

ESPN Stats and Info: 1996 EURO quarters vs Spain.

Jeff Carlisle: I recall England putting Spain out of Euro 96, right James?

James Tyler: Rooney looks exhausted. England's banks of four looking a little battered but still holding up. JUST.

ESPN Stats and Info: Expect business to pick up in the 2nd ET period. Only four goals in EURO history have been scored in the first ET period, but 18 have been scored in the second one.

James Tyler: Very tiredly.

James Tyler: Hart, simply because Italy are the only ones shooting on goal.

James Tyler: Think it was a cross for Nocerino, but it bends on goal and Hart was beaten!

James Tyler: More Italian passing deep in England's half. Lofted cross/shot by Diamanti hits the outside of the post!

Jeff Carlisle: Maggio has been a lot less willing to get forward than Abate was. I wonder if that is Prandelli's doing.

James Tyler: I'll say 72% chance, Wren.

James Tyler: Ha! Darnit, Andy.

Jeff Carlisle: Of course, Carroll gives it away there.

James Tyler: Balotelli works room to shoot past Lescott but Joe Hart isn't letting that one past.

James Tyler: Indeed, Jeff. Much maligned but is good at what he does.

Jeff Carlisle: And clean with this passing, James. Very impressed.

James Tyler: Goal kick flicked on by Carroll. He's been lively since coming on.

James Tyler: Jogi Low?

James Tyler: Long ball into the box is handled by Buffon easily.

Jeff Carlisle: That would be poetic...I don't know.

James Tyler: An England break is snuffed out as Rooney can't find anyone to pass to. Moments later Pirlo finds Balotelli onside but the striker can't control. Lucky England. Again.

Jeff Carlisle: Rooney has faded badly in this match. He's gotten the ball in some good positions and done nothing with it.

James Tyler: But I must support him, because he's playing now. In a big game. Still tied at 0-0.

James Tyler: Hendo would be great for Slovenia, I bet.

James Tyler: Free kick swung deep into the box, pandemonium as it looks like Lescott could toe-poke it home, but amid all the panic, no-one noticed the offside flag was up.

James Tyler: Parker looks exhausted, but now, Jordan Henderson gets to bring his unique brand of whatever he does.

Jeff Carlisle: Italy will win, so says the sloth.

James Tyler: Well, then.

Jeff Carlisle: Terrible yellow on Maggio. Absolutely nothing in it.

James Tyler: SUB FOR ENGLAND: Scott Parker off, Jordan Henderson on.

James Tyler: YELLOW CARD: Maggio in the book for a hack on Ashley Young. Maggio will miss the semis if Italy advances.

James Tyler: Oh god.... Henderson....

James Tyler: Nocerino blazes over the bar from distance. Roy Hodgson looks very unhappy.

James Tyler: Thanks for joining us in chat, by the way. The comments are superb. Wish I could publish them all and still describe what's happening. Thanks for being involved!

James Tyler: Doubt it. He knows what heat he'd receive if a sudden kitchen-sink approach resulted in heartbreak.

James Tyler: Right then.

James Tyler: Nope, Rob. No sudden death. If scores remain level at 120 mins, penalties ensue. A winning goal in extra time still requires the full 30 mins to be played.

James Tyler: England kicks off.

James Tyler: I read somewhere that Pizza came from China originally. Or maybe I'm thinking of pasta. Or maybe I'm completely wrong. Game's back on!

James Tyler: Right, the teams are ready once more. Grit! Guts! Spirit! Who is winning this?

James Tyler: I couldn't possibly eat while England is playing. Good diet idea, that. Just re-run England games.

James Tyler: So true, NY Dolfan. I mean, what has Italy ever done for the world? #HeavySarcasm

Jeff Carlisle: Nice tactical battle too. De Rossi slides in-field, Italy dominated. Carroll adds a different dimension for England.

James Tyler: Well, excluding the right arm and left ankle I surrendered for Euro 1996 disappointment, I'd have to say pancreas. We don't need those, do we? Appendix?

James Tyler: So, story lines: Italy dominant. England heroic.

James Tyler: Rog, you've been called out. Get back here!

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy finished regulation with a 62-38 possession advantage, a 25-9 lead in shots, a and a 16-4 advantage in shots on target

James Tyler: Heart, guts, kidneys, etc.

James Tyler: Pride. Lucre. The selling price of England players' new memoirs.

James Tyler: Who cares, Kevin? This is an epic contest. Sloppy, but absorbing. Ugly at times, but irrefutably compelling. Stick with us!

James Tyler: Tense tense tense tense. Still, England survived. More footy to come. Extra stretching for all! Don't cramp up! My fingers need some MAGIC SPRAY.

James Tyler: Wow. FULL TIME: England 0, Italy 0, my heart rate RUINED.

James Tyler: BARTENDER....

James Tyler: Young plays Ashley Cole down the left, his overhit cross is knocked down well by Carroll for Rooney but Wazza bicycle kicks it over the bar!

James Tyler: Chance for England at the death!

James Tyler: Cross for Carroll is hoofed clear by Barzagli.

James Tyler: Pirlo's shot is blocked. Rooney and Walcott break.... Theo does brilliantly just to retain possession. 60 seconds left.

James Tyler: A bit, Dan, yes!

Jeff Carlisle: No subs left for Italy now. England has one left.

ESPN Stats and Info: The 26 blocked shots for England leads all teams at this year's tournament.

James Tyler: Aka, let's run at Ashley Cole some more.

James Tyler: SUB FOR ITALY: Abate off, Maggio on. Simple enough swap: wing-back for wing-back.

James Tyler: ASSUMING no goals.

James Tyler: THREE MINUTES LEFT (BEFORE EXTRA TIME)

ESPN Stats and Info: 26 so far.

James Tyler: Glen Johnson doing what Malouda didn't yesterday... followed the play and made the block. (Referring to Malouda allowing Xabi Alonso to run unchallenged and score Spain's first goal)

James Tyler: Pirlo wallops it to the back post. It's cleared.

Jeff Carlisle: Johnson, massive block there. Great run by Nocerino.

James Tyler: CHANCE FOR ITALY! Nocerino in behind the defense, controls beautifully but his close-range shot is blocked out for a corner!

James Tyler: Walcott needs a. the ball and b. room to run in order to thrive.

James Tyler: Think I'd agree. Carroll adds an extra dimension of unease to opposing defenders. He's not a constant force yet, but still. Has ruffled the CBs in equal measure since coming on.

James Tyler: Abate lacks the legs to chase Pirlo's angled pass. Goal kick to England.

James Tyler: Fair point, Stephen.

James Tyler: Andy Carroll has a shot blocked, then Theo Walcott ruins a simple cross.

James Tyler: Balotelli handball as he challenges John Terry for a high ball.

James Tyler: Both sides look exhausted, to be fair. Italy attacking at a sprightly jog, but little beyond that.

James Tyler: FIVE MINUTES OF FINGERNAIL-CHEWING TENSION LEFT

Jeff Carlisle: Italy also lost on penalties to Spain in 2008.

James Tyler: Would assume with five minutes of second half left that both managers hold onto their remaining sub for extras. Again, major assumption.

James Tyler: See: Baggio in 1994, England in 1990, 1996, pretty much every year really.

ESPN Stats and Info: Neither team with a great PK history - England is 1-5 in major tournaments, Italy is 2-5.

James Tyler: Neither team, soccer fan. Both are historically dodgy in shootouts. England, hilariously so.

James Tyler: Indeed. Thought Barzagli was ok.

James Tyler: Parker caught the left back in the face with his boot on the follow-through from his shot. Ouch.

James Tyler: Gerrard lofts it in but ball's cleared. Now Balzaretti is down, clutching his face, so Parker is stopped from banging a cross in.

Jeff Carlisle: Didn't look like a yellow at first, but Barzagli did go in a bit high over the ball.

James Tyler: YELLOW CARD FOR ITALY: Barzagli in the book for a zesty slide tackle on Ashley Young.

ESPN Stats and Info: Joe Hart has 51 touches today, more than any player on England.

James Tyler: Presumptive, I know, Aaron. A 2-2 or 3-3 or 4-4 would also mean extra time.

James Tyler: Diamanti with a wicked low shot -- because why not? -- but Hart is equal to it.

James Tyler: Yes. A 0-0 at full time means 30 mins of extra time in two 15-min chunks. If still no winner, PKs follow.

Jeff Carlisle: Hmmm. That's an interesting one, taking De Rossi off. Interesting to see how Nocerino plays.

James Tyler: Young. Please remove Young.

James Tyler: SUB FOR ITALY: De Rossi off, Antonio Nocerino on.

James Tyler: Brief story of this game: Block-block-block-block-HOW DID HE MISS THAT?!?!-block-block-block-shot wide

James Tyler: Corner cleared by Hart. Balzaretti's cross blocked by Rooney.

James Tyler: Hart does well to punch clear as Balotelli had gotten goalside on a lofted cross.

James Tyler: I think Italy's shifting to a five-man midfield, maybe? Diamanti a wide midfielder, usually.

James Tyler: SUBS FOR ITALY: Cassano off, Alessandro Diamanti on. He used to play for West Ham!

James Tyler: Cassano blocked by Ashley Cole.

James Tyler: Ashley Young continuing to look rubbish.

James Tyler: It eludes Rooney and is heading for the far corner but Buffon, easy as you like, tracks it all the way and saves.

James Tyler: Free kick for England. Crampy Gerrard to loft it into the mixer.

James Tyler: Stop swearing, Josh.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy with 21 shots to England's 6. It's a 9-2 Italian advantage in the second half.

James Tyler: Probably water. And some kind of vaporized Icy Hot.

James Tyler: Marchisio slips past Parker but his shot is blocked by Terry.

James Tyler: Montolivo shoots from range. Lescott blocks it.

James Tyler: I'm going to steal my own joke for a third day running: CK One, sweat, and MSG.

ESPN Stats and Info: The last match at Euros to go to extra time was Italy vs Spain in the Euro 2008 quarterfinals. That one finished 0-0 and Spain would advance on penalties.

James Tyler: Quick energy drink, a chat with Gary Neville and he seems ready to re-enter the fray.

James Tyler: The cramps are beginning.... Gerrard is down and trying to keep his hamstring from rolling up.

Jeff Carlisle: Carroll starting to make his presence felt after a bit of a slow start.

James Tyler: change of pace rather than a starter.

James Tyler: Aaron, I think Hodgson likes him as a sixth man-type option. Plan B.

James Tyler: Dear oh dear, England. Promising move by England but it disintegrates when Walcott dawdles and centers for Parker, who refuses to shoot and instead overhits a return pass for Theo in the corner. Silly.

James Tyler: De Rossi is trying his best, John. (almost certain I just jinxed him to score)

James Tyler: Abate wins another corner, he thinks, as his cross is blocked by Young. Ref awards a goal kick.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy has 16 scoring chances; the most chances created by a team that failed to score in the tournament? 25 by Netherlands vs Denmark in the group stage in a 1-0 loss.

James Tyler: He's very good at refilling the Gatorade.

James Tyler: Foul on Ashley Young by Abate. Free kick, wide left, on halfway. England do nothing with it as Parker fouls Pirlo. Game descending into chippy-ville, population: these two teams.

James Tyler: Balotelli finds Cassano but Terry blocks the shot. De Rossi then has a crack from long, long range and it's blocked by Lescott.

James Tyler: Rooney called for a foul at the edge of the box.

James Tyler: Agree, Dan. De Rossi had a huge fistful of Terry's shirt. No-one saw it, mind you.

James Tyler: Corner is swung towards Carroll but he's whistled for a foul on Barzagli. Box looked an absolute moshpit there.

James Tyler: Walcott's cross is missed by Carroll, falls kindly to Young but his 15-yard shot is blocked out for a corner.

Jeff Carlisle: Make that four chances for England.

James Tyler: CHANCE! Ashley Young shot deflected wide!

James Tyler: That's enough, Statsie! (Cries)

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy has created 15 scoring chances today compared to England's 3.

Jeff Carlisle: Nothing wrong with DDR's tackling though.

James Tyler: Funny to see Carroll and Pirlo going mano a mano under a high ball.

Jeff Carlisle: De Rossi's touches in the box this game have been shocking.

James Tyler: Balotelli on the right flank. Holds it up well, plays it infield but Pirlo's eventual far post chip for De Rossi is met with a thundering off-target volley.

James Tyler: So, will these subs be super? Or is that adjective reserved for Mario Balotelli?

Jeff Carlisle: Here you go. The changes England fans have been waiting for.

James Tyler: SUBS FOR ENGLAND: Milner and Welbeck off, Walcott and Carroll on.

James Tyler: Lovely by Balotelli; He controls Abate's cross, chests it down and whips an overhead kick over the bar. That's why Balotelli should stay in the game.

Jeff Carlisle: Abate has been a real force in this half. As for the Italian sub, Cassano' is a bit more short of match fitness than Balotelli, so I think he'll be the one to come off.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy with 124 touches in the attacking third, England with 101

James Tyler: It is an Italian onslaught at present, much to my chagrin.

James Tyler: Oh boy. Might soon be Walcott Time.

James Tyler: Abate's a bit dazed but seems OK. Ashley Young needs a similar check.

Jeff Carlisle: This is typically the time where Cassano comes off. We'll see if Di Natale comes on.

James Tyler: You're crazy, Will. There. Said it.

James Tyler: Break in the play as Ashley Young and Ignazio Abate are both down, requiring some MAGIC SPRAY. Clash of heads.

James Tyler: More waves of Italian pressure lapping at the banks of the English box. All the passes, all the possession. Cassano's cross is overhit, then Balzaretti over hits one.

James Tyler: Sharp defending by Ashley Cole to pivot and block a neat pass intended for Abate in the right corner. Pirlo takes the corner and Lescott powerfully nods it clear.

ESPN Stats and Info: England has completed 73 passes in the Italy attack half. Italy with 136 completed passes in the England half.

James Tyler: I prefer "entertaining" John. #PRspin

James Tyler: ... the Lions break quickly but Gerrard slips and loses the ball.

James Tyler: It's all happening now. Balotelli almost free down the right flank but Lescott breaks up his progress. England hanging on...

ESPN Stats and Info: Will GFOP - My grit-o-meter is on the fritz. Hoping to have it back by the final.

James Tyler: A stunning passage of play. Real backs against the wall stuff by England. Joe Hart earning his pay packet.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy has 16 shots, 8 on target. England with 4 shots, 1 on target.

Jeff Carlisle: Good grief Italy have had chances.

James Tyler: Seriously... was going through his legs but a quick flick of the thigh blocked Balotelli's half-volley.

James Tyler: From the corner, Hart parries a long-range shot, it falls for Balotelli who is brilliantly denied by his Man City teammate, and Montolivo puts the rebound over the bar. Superb reflex save by Hart.

ESPN Stats and Info: Balotelli has 6 shots today, 4 of them on target.

James Tyler: WHAT A CHANCE FOR ITALY!

James Tyler: Parker loses possession for what seems like the 1,694th time in his own half. Italy works it wide to Abate, and his wicked cross is flicked out for a corner.

James Tyler: Barzagli has a canter upfield but loses the ball to Parker. Despite being out of position, he and Pirlo conspire to win the ball right back. Moments later, Parker fouls Pirlo.

James Tyler: Gerrard swings it in but it's cleared. Balotelli then has a run and is fouled by Milner.

Jeff Carlisle: Good tackle Abate.

James Tyler: Rooney wins a corner following a good run down the left channel. Abate cuts off his attack.

James Tyler: Ha, thanks Aaron

James Tyler: Will DDR end up ruing that miss?

James Tyler: Played onside, ball over the top falls nicely for him and he volleys wide from inside the six-yard box!

Jeff Carlisle: Oh. My. Goodness.

James Tyler: DE ROSSI SHOULD HAVE SCORED!

James Tyler: Abate with a fizzing cross cross the box from the right byline... Johnson cleared. Corner for Italy that Hart punches clear... it's lofted back into the box....

ESPN Stats and Info: The first fifteen minutes of the second half have produced 15 goals at this year's EURO, more than any other 15 minute block.

James Tyler: Indeed, Sterling. Been rather poor.

James Tyler: Wakey wakey, you half-time nappers! The English are here to have a shot or two!

James Tyler: Sharp start by England! A long pass, a knock-down header, a flick on. All very lively and culminates in Rooney mis-controlling Parker's shot-overhit pass inside the box.

James Tyler: We're off again!

James Tyler: You hush it, Statsie!

James Tyler: The two sides are ambling back out of the tunnel for another 45 minutes of controlled chaos.

ESPN Stats and Info: Not to continually rain on England's parade, but the winner of the possession battle in the first three quarterfinal matches has won the match. Italy went into half with a 61-39 possession advantage.

James Tyler: Perhaps, ZZZ10. It's all speculation, though. Rooney might benefit from a stronger partner. Tough to say. Just something to shake things up as Italy looks very settled following that opening 15 minutes.

James Tyler: Think Balotelli has to stay on. He's been arguably most creative in attacking third. At least trying to shoot, create space, etc.

Jeff Carlisle: Not yet. If it's still tied around the 65-70 minute mark, Di Natale comes in.

James Tyler: He's a key, without a doubt. Doing well enough on the defensive side but needs to be able to create, too.

Jeff Carlisle: 1966.

James Tyler: Now you're getting silly, Steve!

James Tyler: I know that Carroll is tall/strong and that always denotes Route One, but that doesn't mean it would follow, were he subbed in. Carroll's like Crouch in that he's actually very good with his feet. Underrated in that regard.

James Tyler: Well said, Jeff.

Jeff Carlisle: Good shouts there Steve. I think one or the other (if not both) is necessary. The only reason to keep Welbeck on is that he's doing a lot of work on the defensive end that Carroll wouldn't (or can't) do.

James Tyler: Indeed, Bob. Without a doubt.

James Tyler: For me, ZZZ10, Bonucci and Barzagli look too comfortable. Get a striker in who can test them physically. The crosses from Cole/Johnson/Young/whoever else comes in need a finisher.

Jeff Carlisle: I agree, unless England just decides to go route one and bypass the midfield. Either way, England can't be content to keep things as they are.

ESPN Stats and Info: The only players on England with more touches than Joe Hart's 24 in the first half were Glen Johnson (26) and Wayne Rooney (25).

James Tyler: Yes! UNLEASH THE CARROLL.

Jeff Carlisle: The onus is on Hodgson to make some changes here I think. Italy clearly on the front foot. Young has been invisible. Time for the Ox?

ESPN Stats and Info: 10th scoreless first half of this tournament. No 0-0 results to be found this year, but Italy has played more 0-0 matches in EURO history than any other team with 7.

James Tyler: Well, then. HALFTIME: England 0, Italy 0. De Rossi cracked a post, Buffon made a superb save, Welbeck shot wide from the edge of the box and Rooney put a close-range diving header over the bar. That about cover it?

ESPN Stats and Info: Joe Hart has 20 touches so far, Wayne Rooney has 23.

Jeff Carlisle: I think Balotelli thought Joe Hart was his teammate on that play.

James Tyler: Balotelli lofts a hopeful cross into the box for Cassano but it's nowhere near the intended target. Hart catches it. Panic over.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy with 10 shots, 6 on target. England with 4 shots, 1 on target.

James Tyler: Chance! Balotelli shoots narrowly over the bar from 25 yards. Milner and Parker in his path and he blasts from distance. Why not?

Jeff Carlisle: Terrible cross Rooney. England could have really punished Italy there on the break.

James Tyler: England break with Rooney down the left flank but his cross is poor. Had three teammates sprinting into the box. Should have done better.

James Tyler: Defender got the last touch and so an Italy corner... nothing comes of it.

James Tyler: CHANCE! Long ball to the back post is nodded back towards goal by Cassano,, Balotelli gets between Lescott and Terry and the ball whizzes over the bar from 8 yards out!

James Tyler: An Italian break down the left is cued by Balzaretti and Montolivo but the English defense holds firm.

James Tyler: Five minutes left in the first half.

James Tyler: If you're still struggling to watch the game, try WatchESPN.com online or ESPN on TV. Can also find radio feeds at ESPNRadio.com

James Tyler: Parker's momentum takes him through Daniele De Rossi. Free-kick for the Azzurri but nothing comes of it.

James Tyler: Another rakish long cross for Balotelli to chase in the box, but Hart collects. Balotelli falls down as if pushed by the defender. Ref is uninterested.

ESPN Stats and Info: Ashley Young completing only 70.7% of his passes so far at this tournament and is only 1-12 on crosses.

James Tyler: Chance! Cassano gets one on target but Hart is equal to it, palming it away and then recovering the loose ball.

James Tyler: He's been awful.

James Tyler: Rooney hauled down by De Rossi. Ref's not happy... but he's not happy with Rooney. No foul. Fans dissent in the crowd.

ESPN Stats and Info: England has 67 touches in the attacking third to Italy's 59. At one point, England had a 42-15 advantage.

Jeff Carlisle: De Rossi has tucked infieold now alongside Pirlo. That's helping Italy really own the ball.

ESPN Stats and Info: Touches in the middle third of the field - Italy 163, England 60

James Tyler: Cassano is dropping deep a fair bit to cue attacks. Tries it again but ball doesn't make it to Balotelli.

James Tyler: I am! I am!

James Tyler: Italy looking far more comfortable now. 10 minutes left in the first half.

ESPN Stats and Info: Nine matches have gone to half 0-0 at this year's EURO, but there have been no 0-0 results.

Jeff Carlisle: For those not able to watch on TV, possession stats so far: 60-40 in favor of Italy.

James Tyler: Because traditionally, you'd actually get a nice little cap to wear.

James Tyler: Look out, DW. I think some will disagree.

James Tyler: Cassano shoots wide again. Did well to work free of James Milner's marking.

James Tyler: Anyone help Dan there? We need an Italian phrase.

James Tyler: Chance! Welbeck drifts infield unchallenged, a nice 1-2 with Rooney but Welbeck stubs his shot wide! C'mon, Danny!

James Tyler: Chance! Balotelli played free over the top as Terry stepped up.... but he smashed it right at Hart. Lucky England.

ESPN Stats and Info: England with 3 turnovers in its own half so far. Averaged 4 per match in the group stage.

Jeff Carlisle: England can't get out of its own half. Combo of bad passing and poor hold-up play.

James Tyler: Good play by Johnson to dispossess Balzaretti but he then loses it right back to Marchisio.

James Tyler: Montolivo shoots from distance but it's wide. Game calming down a bit. But both sides showing vulnerabilities.

ESPN Stats and Info: England struggling with its passing so far - 77-173 (68.1%). Italy is 151-178 (84.8%).

Jeff Carlisle: Indecisive or just flat out too casual? Did the same thing against Spain.

James Tyler: Howler. Definitely a howler.

Jeff Carlisle: Cassano very poor so far. Bad decisions with his passing.

James Tyler: Terry, as he so often does, created his own problem and then solved it. Makes me nervous!

James Tyler: Chance! Balotelli gets free of Terry, Hart rushes off his line but the shot is blocked wide. Let-off for England there. John Terry....

Jeff Carlisle: Bonucci and Barzagli have been solid so far.

James Tyler: Milner's cross is cleared at the near post.

James Tyler: Good play by Montolivo to work free of his marker on the right side of midfield, but England defends in a swarm and wins back possession.

ESPN Stats and Info: England is 41-59 (69.5%) passing inside of the Italian half so far.

James Tyler: England passing in the Italian half. We'll call it "tippy-tappy." Gerrard finds Johnson on the right but he's forced to pass backwards. Now, Abate finds Balotelli on the right side but Mario's called for tugging Lescott's shirt. Free kick, England.

Jeff Carlisle: Italy starting to play at their tempo.

James Tyler: Long range hoof by Cassano is a mile over the bar.

Jeff Carlisle: De Rossi has been doing that the whole tournament there Morty. The better to get the protective covering on his right hand through the sleeve.

James Tyler: ... amounts to nothing.

James Tyler: Now, corner for Italy as Milner takes the ball away from Balzaretti. Pirlo to take...

James Tyler: Hope not, guest!

James Tyler: All good tactical insights, folks. Keep them coming as I labor to keep up with the pace. Cassano looking tricky on the edge of the England box.

James Tyler: Another break for England via Ashley Young. Barzagli disrupts him but Ashley Cole gets it back. The Three Lions have to do something with this pressure!

James Tyler: We gave it plenty, Dan!

James Tyler: Lescott fouls Balotelli. Italy free kick wide right. It's whacked well over the crowd in the box, and Balzaretti's follow-up cross goes behind for a goal kick.

James Tyler: Not a good cross for Rooney. Goal kick, Italy. I'm amazed at the opening quarter-hour. Neither side settling down. Just relentless attack.

Jeff Carlisle: I would say De Rossi was the guilty culprit there for leaving Johnson open as Balzaretti had to mark Milner I think it was.

James Tyler: Italy's turn: Balzaretti gets upfield but cross is blocked out for a throw-in.

ESPN Stats and Info: Attacking 3rd touches - England 34, Italy 12

Jeff Carlisle: Buffon screaming at his defense for not putting more pressure on Johnson.

James Tyler: Chance for England! Another lovely move. Glen Johnson's right-flank cross is perfect for Rooney but he puts his free header over the bar. Abate did well to distract the United striker. Should have been 1-0.

James Tyler: Means nothing, John. Scoreline is all that matters.

James Tyler: Jeff, I thought Johnson would be crucial in defense. Turns out he's proving quite elemental at the other end. Funny old game, etc.

James Tyler: What a breathless 13 minutes.

Jeff Carlisle: Glen Johnson of all people giving Italy lots of problems down the right flank.

James Tyler: Chipped cross intended for Rooney is overhit. Still the Three Lions apply the pressure. Buffon punches a cross to Scott Parker -- could have caught it if he wanted to -- and Parker's first-time daisy-cutting shot is wide.

James Tyler: Gerrard's corner is decent but cleared.

James Tyler: Half-chance! Milner plays Rooney in down the left touchline, but his cross for Welbeck is blocked out by Bonucci. Corner to England.

James Tyler: Another 50-50 ball won by England in the Italian half. Plenty of intricate passing by the Three Lions down both flanks. Johnson and Cole getting well forward on the overlaps.

James Tyler: Real end to end mania in the early going.

Jeff Carlisle: Based on the opening minutes, I think De Rossi and/or Marchisio are going to have to pinch inside and give Pirlo more defensive help.

James Tyler: More room for England to surge forward. Gerrard takes it up the right flank but his low cross is swept clear. England keep the ball and Cole's cross can't find Rooney at the far post.

ESPN Stats and Info: No team has lost a EURO quarterfinal match outright after scoring the opening goal (13-0-2). The 2 draws were England (2004 vs Portugal) and Croatia (2008 vs Turkey) and both would go on to lose in PKs.

James Tyler: Long ball for Cassano is knocked down but he shoved Lescott down in order to reach it. Free kick, England. What a fun opening to this one

James Tyler: Rog, did the entire press box collapse when Buffon saved that? How about for De Rossi's POST?

James Tyler: Sorry; was Johnson in the box. Couldn't make a clean connection on the ball. Wow. Neither side with much catenaccio so far.

ESPN Stats and Info: These two teams both scored the opening goal in each of their three group stage matches.

James Tyler: In a nutshell: lovely passing move down the right, Milner's low cross falls for Welbeck inside the box, it bobbles, he finally shoots and Buffon saves superbly from close range! Rooney goes for the rebound but Gigi grabs it. Madness. Pass me the Tums. Forget the beer.

Jeff Carlisle: Wow. Johnson did not really get a lot of power on that. Still a great save by Buffon.

James Tyler: Lads, it's only been five minutes! Settle!

James Tyler: Now, England with a spot of possession. Need to settle down. Gerrard sprays it wide for Glen Johnson... WHAT A SAVE BY BUFFON!

Jeff Carlisle: Interesting, looks like Welbeck is the one dropping deep to harass Pirlo.

James Tyler: Bartender...?

James Tyler: Marchisio's angled pass finds DDR deep and unmarked. Struck it with his left foot, first time, and Hart's helpless. Swerves onto the post from 35 yards and cleared. Gulp.

James Tyler: DE ROSSI HITS THE POST!

James Tyler: Timely joke, that. Nice one, Nick.

James Tyler: As I write that, Balzaretti whizzes a cross over everyone. Abate keeps it in play and cycles it back into midfield.

Jeff Carlisle: It's to prevent the evil spirit possessing Buffon from escaping.

James Tyler: A slow pace. Both sides clearly waiting for extra time. Must be fresh.

James Tyler: Buffon's obviously trying to cheat. #kidding

James Tyler: I'm typing with bloodied finger stubs, CF. Excuse any typos.

Jeff Carlisle: I think Balotelli took the term "try your luck from distance" to its extreme there.

James Tyler: Some early passes for Italy, a long ball, a snapshot by Balotelli from 40 yards that dribbles to Joe Hart.

James Tyler: THE BALL HAS BEEN KICKED OFF AND THIS INCREDIBLY TENSE QUARTERFINAL IS NOW UNDERWAY OH MY GOD THE NERVES

James Tyler: Whoa, AJ. Easy.

Jeff Carlisle: Oxlade-Chamberlain is only English sub with on a yellow. Maggio, Chielllini (injured) and Thiago Motta are the Italian subs on yellows.

James Tyler: That's why they play the games, John.

James Tyler: I'm proud of him to get this far, absolutely. Arguably he's surpassed expectations.

James Tyler: LINEUPS!
ENGLAND: 1-Hart; 2-Johnson, 5-Terry, 15-Lescott, 3-Cole; 16-Milner, 17-Parker, 4-Gerrard, 11-Young; 10-Rooney, 22-Welbeck.

ITALY: 1-Buffon; 7-Abate, 15-Barzagli, 19-Bonucci, 6-Balzaretti; 8-Marchisio, 16-De Rossi, 21-Pirlo, 18-Montolivo; 9-Balotelli, 10-Cassano.

Jeff Carlisle: For those asking, the silver goal was a concept where if a team scored in the first period of extra time, then the game would end at the end of those 15 minutes, not right away.

Jeff Carlisle: I'll say 2-0 Italy.

James Tyler: I AM STANDING UP, ROG!

Roger Bennett: GET YOUR TISSUES READY JT

James Tyler: Predictions? Real quick. I abstain because I can't possibly reconcile the results my heart and head are conjuring up.

Jeff Carlisle: Because the Golden/Silver goals idea didn't work. Idea was to make extra time more attacking. The opposite happened, as teams became even more cautious.

James Tyler: Anthems....

James Tyler: Because that was a rubbish idea. At least for me.

James Tyler: Here come the teams... 6,000 English fans in Kiev. Be safe, lads.

James Tyler: PKs are quite possibly the best thing FIFA's ever done for soccer. It's the ultimate crapshoot. Play well for 120 minutes, defend stoically and lose. It's as cruel as the size of Sepp Blatter's per diem.

Jeff Carlisle: So you're on life support then, GOOSE? ;)

James Tyler: How can I type with hands firmly glued in front of my eyes?

James Tyler: If we get PKs, I might disappear.

Jeff Carlisle: I hope not. I hate Pks.

James Tyler: I'll say it's Gerrard. Rooney's vitality is obvious in the attacking third, but Stevie G needs to be his vintage and not the long-distance-shooting-into-Row-ZZ ball hog that he has been at times in the last two years.

Jeff Carlisle: I'm with you JA. The result is all that matters.

Roger Bennett: By the looks of things, Italy have 7 fans in Kiev tonight. The nation has tried to make amends by lending all of its worst techno music to Ukraine for the night

Jeff Carlisle: For England starters: Cole, Young, Gerrard, and Milner on yellow cards.

James Tyler: Yellow cards are erased AFTER today's game. If you pick up a second YC today, no semi final for you. Assuming your team wins.

James Tyler: Also, I'm thinking people are starting to buy the Three Lions buzz. Football's coming home, etc.

Jeff Carlisle: Among Italy starters Buffon, Bonuci, Montolivo, and Balotelli are on yellow cards.

James Tyler: England is as overrated as it is underrated. Which might suggest it is rated correctly. Or that rating is inherently flawed. You pick.

James Tyler: Woy's been very defensive, as is his wont. Guys like Walcott and Ox are the obvious plan B/tempo change in the second half.

James Tyler: I am sad that one of Hodgson and Prandelli will have to take an early flight home after today. Both have been admirable in difficult circumstances and really galvanized two disparate, tense squads to some effect.

Jeff Carlisle: Don't care who wins to be honest, although I'm a big admirer of the job Prandelli has done for Italy.

ESPN Stats and Info: Italy and England meet for the 23rd time today, but only the third meeting at a major tournament. Italy won the previous two major tournament meetings - a 2-1 victory in the 1990 World Cup 3rd-place Match and a 1-0 win in the Group Stage of the 1980 European Championship.

Roger Bennett: JT -- good to be here. tissues at the ready for the national anthem

James Tyler: @PirloFlop: can only assume Milner has incriminating pictures.

Jeff Carlisle: I suspect it's because Hodgson thinks Milner is more defensively responsible than say Walcott.

James Tyler: Afternoon, Rog!

Roger Bennett: Match preview by old me: http://espnfc.com/us/en/news/1113002/bennettengland-vs-italy-finely-poised-.html

Roger Bennett: Hello America.... excited? Will England be able to top New Zealand's 1-1 draw with Italy at World Cup 2010? Minutes to go before we find out...

James Tyler: My picks for key players, today:
http://espnfc.com/us/en/news/1114226/tylerkey-players-england-vs-italy.html

Jeff Carlisle: I'm ready for anything Colleen.

James Tyler: Our preview material...
Roger Bennett (who will be hear soon) reckons this is finely poised. I'd agree.
http://espnfc.com/us/en/news/1113002/bennettengland-vs-italy-finely-poised-.html

James Tyler: Good shout, Jeff. Similar to the design that so handled the Irish.

Jeff Carlisle: Or 4-1-3-2, depending on how you look at it.

Jeff Carlisle: Looks like the usual 4-3-1-2 with Montolivo as the attacking mid and Pirlo distributing from deep.

James Tyler: Pirlo's the key. Then again, he's always the key.

James Tyler: I'd also expect to see Walcott/Ox deployed in the second half if needed.

James Tyler: It's a 4-4-2 nominally, but Rooney will be a fifth midfielder as required.

James Tyler: Good question, Jeff. I think so. Rooney is known for tracking back to pick up possession in midfield, but I could easily see him doing so to disrupt Pirlo's rhythm.

Jeff Carlisle: So James, do you think Rooney will drop deep to harass Pirlo?

James Tyler: I want all of those things, Joshua L. Most of all, an England 4-0 win.

Jeff Carlisle: Ah. Just saw it. The Sun. Never ones to overhype things.

James Tyler: Well, I'm totally offended, ChelseaFan. There's always a chance of winning no matter the situation. If England wins, I don't expect them to be scared in the semi. BUT THAT IS A LONG WAY AWAY.

Jeff Carlisle: So in what outlet did Pirlo make his comments?

ESPN Stats and Info: Good afternoon all. Statsie present and accounted for.

James Tyler: Afternoon, Jeff!

Jeff Carlisle: Greetings everyone! Looking forward to this one. Although that's nothing new.

James Tyler: England unchanged.

James Tyler: So, Mario back in, presumably to terrorize teammate at City, Joleon Lescott.

James Tyler: LINEUPS:
Engerland: Hart; Johnson, Terry, Lescott, Cole; Milner, Parker, Gerrard, Young; Rooney, Welbeck.

Italia: Buffon; Abate, Barzagli, Bonucci, Balzaretti; Marchisio, De Rossi, Pirlo, Montolivo; Balotelli, Cassano.

James Tyler: Basically, Pirlo disrespected the English. How dare he! Said midfield and defense was weak, etc etc. Typical locker room motivational material.

James Tyler: Hope so, Chavez!

James Tyler: I was indeed, +Chavez. They stood up to Spain where many have not this summer. I'm a huge fan of Prandelli and his flexibility.

James Tyler: I think Pirlo is a silly billy. The Euro quarterfinals are no time for hubris.

James Tyler: Indeed. (recites prayer) (pukes in corner)

James Tyler: It is indeed a splendid day, my overwhelming nerves notwithstanding.

James Tyler: Don't mind me if I break chat to go weep in the corner. England's day of reckoning is finally here.... the Azzurri standing tall in this last quarterfinal clash.

James Tyler: Happy Euros, one and all!