Italian fans reacted with shock, anger and tears late Sunday to their national team's 4-0 defeat against Spain in the Euro 2012 final in Kiev, dpa reported.
Some frustrated tifosi threw flares and other obstacles at the big screens at Rome's Circo Massimo as the dream of lifting a first Euro title in 44 years was crushed by rampant Spain.
Others shed a few tears or were simply speechless on a hot night after fans across the country had sung the national anthem with almost as much dedication as goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon before the final.
The Italian team had surprised many in the country and a round the world with a courageous run to the final including a 2-1 semi-final triumph over title favourites Germany. But Andrea Pirlo and company were not able to repeat the performance against Spain.
The team is to be received by the nation's president Giorgio Napolitano after the return on Monday and prime minister Mario Monti also praised the Azzurri after attending the game in Kiev's Olympic stadium.
"The boys have been extraordinary. Now we are all a little bit disappointed. But in Italy we have the ability to overcome difficulties," Monto said.