Totti is returning after 2 1/2 months out with a broken left leg and still has 10 screws and a metal rod holding the bones together.

"After a lot of hard work, I'm finally back in top form," the AS Roma player said during the buildup to Tuesday's game against Germany.

The playmaker, who plays the supporting role behind strikers Luca Toni and Alberto Gilardino, was left on the bench for Italy's second round game against Australia but went on to score the winner from the penalty spot with the last kick of the game.

"The rest served me well," said Totti, who played only the last 15 minutes of that game but started in the 3-0 quarterfinal victory over Ukraine and provided two assists.

Although Italy's biggest weapon is its tight defense, which has allowed only an own-goal so far in five games, the Azzurri will want a big game from Totti if they are to test Jens Lehmann in Germany's goal.

Totti has another reason to reach the final. He was kicked out of the 2004 European Championship for spitting in an opponent's face.

Zidane, Figo, Ballack and Totti are all targeting the final. Although only two will get there, soccer will be the overall winner if they stay on top form.