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.