Pirlo was instrumental in setting up Grosso's 119th minute goal, with a deft flick through to the fullback whose left-foot shot curled its way round German keeper Jens Lehmann.

But it was the veteran striker Del Piero, troubled by injury and poor form in the past few seasons, who stole the show after coming on as a substitute 14 minutes into extra time.

He sealed Italy's victory with the last kick of the game, slotting the ball inside the far post from a Gilardino pass.

"When I sent on Del Piero I said to people that he would get the winning goal. I was wrong about that but he made an impact," Lippi said.

Italy will face France or Portugal in Sunday's final.

"I'd be stupid to stay which team I'd prefer to face because if it turns out to be the other one, they'll be even more motivated," Lippi said. "We'll take what comes."