Cesare Prandelli revels in Italy win

Cesare Prandelli has praised his Italy players for the spirit they showed to beat England at Euro 2012.

The Azzurri are now through to the semi-final, where they will face Germany, after defeating the Three Lions in a penalty shoot-out.

The 54-year-old said that his team showed their quality and deserved to win the game.

"We have played a great game," Prandelli told Rai TV. "We deserved the win. We were really good against a big team like England. Then, at penalties, what is also needed is luck.

"This evening we played with heart, character and ideas against a difficult side. I also want to underline the spirit we showed."

Prandelli has talked Germany up as favourites for their semi-final clash in Warsaw on Thursday.

He added: "Are Germany favourites for the semi-final? Absolutely yes, but now let's celebrate this win and then we will think about the semi-final."

The other semi-final sees reigning champions Spain take on Portugal.