Italy coach Marcello Lippi was ecstatic after seeing his side net a place in the World Cup final with a dramatic 2-0 extra-time victory over hosts Germany.

Two goals right at the end of the extra 30 minutes from Fabio Grosso and Alessandro Del Piero were enough for the Azzurri, with Lippi saying: "This is the realisation of a dream that has lasted a long time.

"If there was a team that was going to win this game, it was going to be us.

"We dominated the territory and we were tired at the end and risked a bit, but not too much."

Del Piero was over the moon, adding: "It was fantastic to be part of a match like that.

"To win in their own backyard, there aren't any words that describe what I'm feeling right now."

Germany full-back Philipp Lahm admitted that the loss was a shattering blow to the World Cup hosts, saying: "It's bitter to lose so close to the end of the match.

"There were two very good teams out there. There weren't many chances. It was a balanced match.

"It's hard to find an explanation and we're naturally very, very disappointed."