In pictures: Joy and sorrow over Euro 2020 final

High hopes and nerves gave way to fear and sorrow as England lost to Italy on penalties during their first major international final in 55 years.

Here is a selection of photos before, during, and after the historic match.

Emotions were on display as thousands of fans turned up to Wembley to show their support.

There was a festive atmosphere outside stadium.

This fan used the occasion to show off his England tattoos.

Thousands of supporters cheered and chanted in the build-up to the match.

Hopes were high as fans gathered around the country to watch the game.

The Red Arrows performed a flyover above Wembley Stadium in support of the England team.

A large replica of The Henri Delaunay Trophy is seen while performers dance inside the stadium prior to kick-off.

This was English football's most important day for more than half a century and the team was urged on by a fervent crowd.

England were up and running with an early goal from Luke Shaw after two minutes.

Fans in Manchester had barely settled into their seats before the opportunity for celebration.

Wembley grew anxious as Italy gained possession. Experience proved critical for the Azzurri (Blues).

Italy dominated possession and Leonardo Bonucci restored parity from close range in the 67th minute.

Italy's goal dampened the party atmosphere at the fan zone in Trafford Park, Manchester.

It was a very tough second half for England, with Italy in control. As extra time loomed, Giorgio Chiellini fouled Bukayo Saka.

A tense period of extra time failed to find a winner, it was on to penalties.

The Duchess of Cambridge appeared unable to watch.

Under Gareth Southgate, the young side provided the nation with hope.

England missed three of their five penalties, Marcus Rashford hitting a post and Gianluigi Donnarumma denying Jadon Sancho.

Italian fans at home in Rome were tense as Jordan Pickford kept England hopes alive with saves from Andrea Belotti and Jorginho.

Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka saw the giant Italy goalkeeper save his spot-kick.

The tearful 19-year-old Saka, who showed such courage to step forward, was consoled by his team-mates and manager.

The moment in Manchester when it became clear the dream was finally over

In the end, it was spot-kick suffering for England once again as jubilant Italian squad rushed towards their keeper to celebrate victory.

Italy fans cheered in Piccadilly Circus in central London as their team won.

There were triumphant scenes across Italy. Here supporters celebrate in Piazza del Duomo in Milan.

Ecstatic fans started street parties across the country immediately.

England fans at the Trafalgar Square Fan Zone in London were dejected after the loss.

The result was a familiar tale of disappointment.

Italy edged over the line and both Southgate and his players looked devastated, as were the fans at Wembley.

England's years of hurt go on. Dreams of a major trophy shattered once more.

Italy's players and staff celebrated in front of their exultant fans. Euro 2020 was their sixth major tournament title, only Germany (seven) have won more.

As despondent fans made their way home, a huge clean-up operation began.

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