Football fans flood downtown Hamilton street after Italy wins Euro Cup

Italy fans filled a downtown street in Hamilton on Sunday after their team won the European Championship for the second time, beating England in a penalty shootout.

Hamilton police preemptively blocked off part of James Street North to allow for the celebrations that started shortly after 6 p.m.

While people packed the closed-off area, cars filled the rest of the street. The celebrations caused some GO Transit delays.

Dozens of officers stood by and watched as car engines roared, horns blared, snare drums rattled, electro music pulsed, flags waved and hundreds of fans danced and screamed.

While people young and old found countless ways to celebrate on the street, many had few words to describe the moment.

"It's excitement, energy ... it's just getting started," said Kareem Krichel, who attended with his family.

Vanessa Martina, 19, was dancing among the crowd. She said she was on edge during the tight game.

"It's beautiful. We're all like family here, you know?" Martina said.

Italy beat England 3-2 on penalties on Sunday. England scored the first goal within the first two minutes, but barely saw the ball for the rest of the game.

The match finished 1-1 after extra time.

"It was 50/50, you never know, but we pulled through at the end," Martina said. "We're so proud."