Italy took exactly what they deserved from this superpower showdown. From the start of the game it was easy to predict how the next couple of hours would pan out and with the Azzurri at their defensive, cynical worst it was also a fair bet that it would drag. And it did.

With the Spanish seemingly incapable of breaking down Italy’s two banks of five and both teams’ horrendous record from the spot in major tournaments, this match had "penalties" written all over it. What’s more, it was about the only way we were likely to see a goal.

In his defence (no pun intended), Roberto Donadoni was forced to name a team without his midfield engine room of Gattuso and Pirlo. However, in all honesty, Italy have been distinctly unadventurous throughout UEFA EURO 2008™ and it was no surprise that they set the record for the most 0-0 draws in the history of the competition last night.

In a first half largely devoid of entertainment, Toni had Italy’s best chance with a header that he directed straight at Casillas. Silva meanwhile shaved both posts from long distance as he tried to find his range for Spain, who were also harshly denied a penalty when Villa seemed to be kicked inside the area.

Just before the hour mark, both managers made changes that livened up the game. Fabregas came on for Spain while Camoranesi took the field for Italy and, within minutes, the Argentinean-born winger forced an instinctive – and match-winning – save from Casillas.

With Torres and Villa kept in check by the expert Italian defence, most of the Spanish chances fell to midfielders. Silva had two more presentable chances while Senna hit a low drive that dribbled through Buffon and, to the big goalkeeper’s relief, returned to his arms via the foot of his post. However this was about as good as it got.

So after 120 minutes of largely forgettable football, it was time for penalties – a cruel lottery that has been unkind to both of these teams over the years. However, Spain’s record of losing three quarter final penaly deciders on this date in recent years does take a lot of beating.

Villa’s assured penalty was the first step in laying that particular ghost to rest and, although Guiza’s effort was saved by Buffon, failures by De Rossi and Di Natale eventually ensured a 4-2 win for Spain…and a victory for the beautiful game.