Italy U21 rage as referee ‘ruined the game’ in Euro elimination vs Germany | OneFootball

Italy U21 coach Carmine Nunziata praised his players despite their elimination from the U21 European Championships, but blamed the referee, saying: ‘He ruined the game.’

The Azzurrini suffered a painful elimination in the U21 European Championship quarter-finals on Sunday night.

Merlin Rohl’s extra-time goal with just three minutes remaining gave the Germans a place in the semifinals, with the Azzurri reduced to nine men.

DUNAJSKA STREDA, SLOVAKIA – JUNE 22: Headcoach Carmine Nunziata of U21 Italy reacts on the sideline during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Quarter-Final match between Germany and Italy at DAC Arena on June 22, 2025 in Dunajska Streda, Slovakia. (Photo by Christian Hofer/Getty Images)

Referee Manfredas Lukjančukas gave two yellow cards to Wilfried Gnonto during the regular time, sending the Leeds star off at minute 81.

The second red card was for Mattia Zanotti in the 90th minute. The 22-year-old was booked twice in a matter of seconds, the second time because of dissent.

Giuseppe Ambrosino scored an incredible late free kick goal for the Azzurrini with the last touch in the game to send it to extra time, but Germany won it at minute 117.

“I can only thank my lads. They were spectacular for 120 minutes, proving that they know how to play football,” Italy CT Nunziata said after the game, via Gazzetta.

“We lost two men and lost the game with just three minutes remaining. Losing after such a performance hurts.

“The referee ruined the game. It’s pointless to discuss it now. Everyone thought we were underdogs against Germany, but they didn’t see the ball much. If it wasn’t for the referee…”