A match between Germany and England can only finish in one way, or? At least it wasn't penalties that decided the U21 Championship final to Germany's favour. England broke that particular spook in the semifinal against Sweden. After a heartbreaking loss 13-12 after penalties against Holland last time round, England finally laid those ghosts to rest as well as manager Stuart Pearce's when they won a spectacular semifinal against Sweden 5-4 on penalties. However, the win came at a price, with two bookings and one sending off that meant England would be without three of their most important players in the final against Germany, whose winner three minutes into the second half of their semifinal against Italy was enough to take them through despite a late flurry from the Italians.

As it turned out, perhaps it would have been better if Sweden had played the final. At least the impressive Swedish crowd would have loved that even more. As it was, Germany was far too efficient and effective to give England a real chance despite them having most of the possession but without three of their best players. Goalkeeper Hart was sorely missed with replacement goalie Loach palming in goal two, which seemed easier to save.

All credit to Germany though; they were as they usually are against England - winners.

All the best.