Italy's Verratti says he would not have awarded match-winning England penalty

Raheem Sterling burst into the penalty area in extra time, appeared to lose his balance following a challenge by Joakim Maehle and eventually fell after a nudge by Mathias Jensen.

Verratti described the penalty decision given to England as generous.

Italy midfielder Marco Verratti said he would not have awarded the penalty for England that lead to Harry Kane's deciding goal in its 2-1 semifinal victory over Denmark on Wednesday night, describing the decision as "generous".

Raheem Sterling burst into the penalty area in extra time and appeared to lose his balance following a challenge by Joakim Maehle.

The England winger eventually fell to the ground after a nudge from another Denmark player, Mathias Jensen.

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The referee pointed to the penalty spot, the decision stood after a review by the video assistant referee and Harry Kane scored — off the rebound after the penalty was saved — to send the hosts to the final of a major competition for the first time since 1966.

England will meet Italy in the final, which is currently on a 33-match unbeaten run — a national record.