Own goals record for Euros is smashed as Spain reach semis after Swiss blunder

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Spain are through to the semi-finals of Euro 2020 – and the latest own goal at the tournament proves it has been a nightmare for defenders.

Denis Zakaria's wild swipe at Jordi Alba's shot from the edge of the box saw the Swiss man slice the ball into his own net early on.

Switzerland's fortunes changed in the second half, though, as Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri drew them level after a mix-up between two Spanish defenders.

After beating favourites and world champions France on penalties in the round of 16, the Swiss fancied their chances at 1-1.

A red card for a late challenge by Remo Freuler – awarded by Premier League referee Michael Oliver – then made life tricky for the Swiss underdogs.

But the Swiss held on for the 30 minutes of extra time to take the game to penalties where drama ensued before Spain eventually won.

Sergio Busquets struck the post with the first spot-kick though Spain keeper Unai Simon made a save from Fabian Schar.

Goalkeeper Yann Sommer impressed during the game for Switzerland and saved from Rodri though Manuel Akanji then was denied by Simon.

Ruben Vargas blazed over allowing Mikel Oyarzabal to slot home the winning penalty and send Spain fans wild with celebration.

What chance do Spain have of winning Euro 2020? Let us know in the comments section.

Zakaria will be gutted more than most as his own goal was the 10th already at Euro 2020.

Staggeringly, that is more own goals than every other Euros tournament combined since it began back in 1960.

Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, whose Portugal are out, is the current top scorer at Euro 2020 with five goals, but even he couldn't get close to the own goal tally to date.

Gareth Southgate's England will be hoping to see Ukraine fall into the same trap on Saturday evening in Rome.

Spain won't really care how they got through, but they are into the semi-finals, where they will face Belgium or Italy.

Spain won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012 though were knocked out at the round of 16 five years ago.

They have looked unconvincing during Euro 2020, finishing second in their group, though will now battle for a spot in the final on Tuesday night.

• Euro 2020
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Spain

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