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Simone Zaza was "convinced" he would score in penalty shootout against Germany

Seven penalties were missed during Saturday's Euro 2016 quarter-final between Italy and Germany. ...



Simone Zaza was "convinced...
Soccer

Simone Zaza was "convinced" he would score in penalty shootout against Germany

Seven penalties were missed during Saturday's Euro 2016 quarter-final between Italy and Germany.

While some of the misses will be easily forgotten, Simone Zaza's shot over the bar will live long in the memory. The 25-year-old Juventus striker was introduced in the 121st minutes, specifically to take penalty but his shot flew over the bar.

“I have always taken my penalties like that and was convinced I’d score,” Zaza told Sport Mediaset when the Italian squad returned home to Milan Airport.

“I did send Manuel Neuer the wrong way, but unfortunately the ball went too high", Football-Italia have reported the striker said. "It will be difficult, but I want to get over it. I want the Italians to know that we gave everything."

"I missed the most important penalty of my career and it'll be with me for the rest of my life."

Italy's only loss in 90 minutes in the tournament came when a weakened team lost 1-0 to Ireland in Lille in their final Group E game. Germany will now meet France in the semi-final later this week.

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