Thiago Motta's inclusion seems to have quieted the Germans down, and although Italy will presumably miss Riccardo Montolivo's creativity, they're not exactly lacking for pretty passers in their lineup. An errant pass from Jerome Boateng gets them going, and a magnificent, flowing move sees Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio -- who's been a little bit disappointing in this tournament, for my money -- find space on the edge of the box, but blaze wide.
Germany Vs. Italy, Euro 2012 Semifinals: Mario Balotelli Off Injured
Mario Balotelli, meanwhile, will not be scoring a third goal or picking up a second yellow card (odds were just about even). The striker's down with what looks like a cramp, and although he's booed by the Germany fans, who are accusing him of time-wasting, it's clear that he can't continue and he'll be replaced by Udinese talisman Antonio di Natale. Not a bad shift from Balotelli, eh?
We have live coverage of the match in our Germany vs. Italy, Euro 2012 Semifinals StoryStream. For more on Euro 2012 and the entire world of football, follow @SBNationSoccer on Twitter.
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