Joachim Low’s side have won all but one of their matches in the tournament in France so far – a goalless draw against Poland in the group stages – and their 3-0 victory over Slovakia in the last 16 showed they are moving into top gear at just the right time.
But Antonio Conte’s Italy team will be difficult opposition to overcome, with the Azzurri having disposed of reigning European champions Spain 2-0 in Paris – while doing the same to Germany in the 2012 European semi-finals.
Goals from Giorgio Chiellini and Graziano Pelle along with a passionate and tactically superior display from the entire team helped Italy book their place in the next round on Monday, despite pre-tournament expectations being low.
And Italy now have the chance to answer their critics further if they can secure a win over Germany in what is sure to be a much-anticipated clash between two great footballing nations.
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