Pirlo puts in crafty performance against Germany

By FRANK GRIFFITHS

Associated Press

Associated Press Sports

updated 9:48 p.m. ET June 28, 2012

WARSAW, Poland (AP) -Andrea Pirlo twirled around defenders effortlessly, and even cleared a ball off the line. On both sides of the field, it was Pirlo that provided the inspiration.

The Italy playmaker didn't score, but he still helped Italy beat Germany 2-1 Thursday in the European Championship semifinals and set up a match against Spain on Sunday in Kiev.

Although he was named man of the match, Pirlo preferred to credit his teammates.

"The team was fantastic," Pirlo said. "We had a great win against a terrific side. We really hope to win the final and put in a terrific display in Kiev."

For the 33-year-old Pirlo, it was the second straight match for which he won plaudits for his incisive passing and flair in midfield. He controlled the pace against Germany and in the quarterfinals against England on Sunday. He sealed that performance with a superb chip in the penalty shootout.

On Thursday, it was Pirlo's defending that was needed early on in the match. He was glued to the goal line when Germany center back Mats Hummels' header seemed to be heading in. The ball hit Pirlo square in the chest and he cleared it off the line for Italy.

It was a crucial intervention, because the Germans had the better chances in the opening stages and going down a goal would have been a huge setback for the Italians.

Pirlo then commanded the tempo of the match, winning midfield duels and impressing the crowd at the National Stadium. A big cheer went up when Pirlo evaded a marker in the center circle with a backheel flick and then spun around to collect the ball again.

Most midfielders are already in decline at Pirlo's age, but the Italian appears to still be in his prime. He led Juventus to an undefeated Serie A season and the Italian title last month, a year after AC Milan gave up on him. He is among just four remaining members of the squad that won the 2006 World Cup.

"I've always given my best," Pirlo said. "Now that we're here in this final we've got to enjoy this to the fullest. But I'm not celebrating too much yet, because we still haven't done anything.

"We want to return home with the cup."

? 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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