After two epic semi-finals, London is now hosting a decider which, for the first time in Euro history, will feature England.

Since their 1966 FIFA World Cup triumph at the previous Wembley Stadium, England has lost in the semi-finals of five major tournaments: Euro ’68 and ’96, the 1990 and 2018 World Cups, and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. However, they have seen off Germany, Ukraine, and, in extra time on Wednesday night, Denmark to earn their chance to end – to paraphrase a popular song – 55 years of hurt.

Italy’s sole Euro title came as hosts back in 1968. They also lost the finals of 2000 and 2012, although since becoming continental champions they have won two of their four World Cups. The Azzurri beat Spain on penalties on Tuesday and if that, technically, halted their 13-game winning streak (and record of 15 Euro victories in a row, qualifying included), they still remain unbeaten in 33. A remarkable turnaround for a team that, while England reached the 2018 World Cup semis, did not even qualify for Russia. But sitting out a preceding World Cup did not stop Czechoslovakia in 1976, Denmark in 1992, or Greece in 2004 from claiming the European title.

Predicted line-ups

Italy: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne

Out: Spinazzola (Achilles)

England: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Phillips; Saka, Mount, Sterling; Kane

Head to head

Italy: Won: 10, Lost: 8, Drawn: 9, Goals: 31

England: Won: 8, Lost: 10, Drawn: 9, Goals: 33