Intro:

From Rome in Italy to Berlin in Germany, soccer fans expressed their feelings on the streets during a thrilling Euro 2012 semi-final between Italy and Germany on Thursday night (June 28). 

At the national stadium in Warsaw, Poland a Mario Balotelli brace allowed Italy to claim a shock 2-0 win over the much-fancied Germans. Italy will take on Spain in the final of the tournament on Sunday (July 1).

Script:

Thousands of Italian fans took to the streets of Rome to celebrate their Euro 2012 semi-final victory over Germany.

The Italians went in to the match as underdogs, but a first half Mario Balotelli brace gave them the advantage.

Germany pulled back a late goal but Italy held on for a 2-1 win, much to the delight of these fans.

It was Italy's eighth consecutive victory against Germany in a major tournament, and this Welsh tourist summed up the mood.

SOUNDBITE: (English) Rachel Adams, tourist from Wales:

"Italians? Football is their life. There is much passion. Every single person I have seen here, it is the most important thing to them. It is just so good to be here and celebrate with everybody."

In Berlin however, the atmosphere was quite the opposite. 

German fans were expecting their young and highly talented side to progress to the final, but instead the players and fans looked jaded.

Mesut Ozil's late consolation from the spot did little to lift the spirits, and the fans seemed beyond despair.

SOUNDBITE: (German) Patrick Weber, Germany fan:

"We played well. There is nothing to complain about... What can we do?"

As Germany head home, Italy can now look forward to Sunday's final in Kiev against reigning World and European champions Spain.