Italy coach feels quarter-final success over England was deserved

Cesare Prandelli: Italy coach wants to celebrate the win over England before focusing on Germany

Cesare Prandelli admits Germany are 'favourites' to win the Euro 2012 semi-final after praising Italy's 'deserved' win over England.

Italy set up a last-four showdown with Germany on Thursday after beating England 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out following a 0-0 draw in Kiev.

The Azzurri dominated the game and struck the post through Daniele de Rossi and substitute Alessandro Diamanti, who then scored the decisive spot-kick.

Prandelli acknowledged his side needed a bit of luck in the shoot-out and urged his team to celebrate their win before focusing on the clash with Germany.

Heart

"We have played a great game," the Italy coach 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.

"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."