Windsor's Erie Street rejoices as Italy beats Spain in Euro Cup semifinals
Italy wins 4-2 on penalties to advance to final
Italy fans rejoiced on the sidewalks of Erie Street in Windsor, Ont., as their side beat Spain 4-2 in the UEFA European Football Championships at Wembley Stadium.
"We fought so hard through the whole game and we showed that we are going to stay in this tournament baby," Seve Oglan said following the victory.
After Spain tied the game in the second half, Italy won in dramatic form after a scoreless overtime led to a shootout.
"I was so stressed out — I knew Jorginho was going to score it, I knew everything was going to go well," Paolo Davia said when asked to describe the winningF moment.
Throughout the day, fans sporting blue shirts filled restaurant patios in Windsor's Little Italy, taking in the game in 30-plus C weather. While most fans were supporting the Italian team, there was a sprinkling of disappointed Spain supporters.
Justin Susko, a Euro Cup fan, described the feeling on Erie Street as "electric."
"Being in this environment is great. There's really no where else to be in Windsor," said Susko.
Electric feeling
Rob Kelly, general manager of the Fogolar Furlan, said he was hoping at least 50 people would come to the restaurant.
"We're averaging 30 to 50 [clients], so with the importance of today's game, hopefully we can get a few more people as well," Kelly said, adding he was rooting for Italy.
The next scheduled game is Wednesday, between England and Denmark, with the winner meeting Italy in Sunday's final.
Kelly said he is expecting a full house for the championship game.
With files by Darrin Di Carlo