 Italians credit team spirit for win
07/05/2006
Members of the Italian team that beat Germany in an extraordinary semi-final last night have said that the spirit in their squad is the reason for their victory.
The match was still at 0-0 after 28 minutes of extra time and looked sure to be headed for penalties, before full back Fabio Grosso received a pass from Andrea Pirlo in the box and curved a perfectly flighted shot inside Jens Lehmann's far post.
Germany's normally reliable defence then seemed to disintegrate following the shock of conceding as the Italians attacked again.
A combination between Alberto Gilardino and Alessandro Del Piero offered the Juventus striker enough space in the box to produce a fantastic finish and end the game with an unlikely 2-0 scoreline.
The Azzurri's odds have shortened to 8/11 now they have booked their place in the final, a feat which last night's scorers celebrated by hailing the togetherness among the players.
"The quality of this team lies in the strength of the squad," said Del Piero.
"I'm not thinking about Sunday yet, I'm going to enjoy this moment and reflect on what we've done up to now. The job isn't finished yet though."
Grosso added: "What a feeling and it's because of our team spirit and the work we've done."
The elimination of the hosts last night means that current leading goalscorer Miroslav Klose cannot add to his tally of five, giving France's Thierry Henry, who has three, the chance to overtake him.
Arsenal captain Henry is favourite to score first against Portugal tonight at 11/4 and also to score from outside the box at 9/1.
Le Bleus are favourites to win at evens, while a draw is available at 9/5 and a Portugal win at 11/4.
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