Italy's EM heroes wanted to enjoy this great football evening without immediately looking at the giant duel against Spain.
"Now we're enjoying this victory, then we think about our opponents," said coach Roberto Mancini on Saturday night in Munich.
The Squadra Azzurra defeated Kevin De Bruyne's Belgian team, which had been declared the Golden Generation, 2-1 and positioned themselves well for the semi-finals of the European Football Championship on Tuesday at London's Wembley Stadium.
Spain had previously prevailed against Switzerland by winning on penalties.
"With two games left, Spain are waiting for us, a great team," said defender Leonardo Bonucci. Collectively, the Italians were able to control Belgium's super attack on Friday evening. Storm giant Romelu Lukaku only scored 1: 2 with a penalty kick. Nicolò Barella and Lorenzo Insigne with a dream goal had already put the 2006 world champion in a comfortable leading position.
In Germany, the site of the last great Italian triumph 15 years ago, the Squadra Azzurra's lust for titles increased a little on Friday evening.
32 games without defeat also bring an almost unshakable confidence to Mancini's brilliantly set collective.
"That differentiates us from the other teams: we sacrifice one another for the other, so we can go far," said Insigne.
"Now we have to charge the batteries, Spain is waiting, we have to be prepared."
The media back home celebrated their stars exuberantly.
The "Gazzetta dello Sport" raved about a "fabulous Italy", the "Corriere dello Sport" made a "magical night".
"Now we keep dreaming, but keep our feet on the ground," said Bonucci.
While Italy's semi-finalists danced happily on the lawn, De Bryune paused at the center line with a blank look.
"For me personally, it's been four or five crazy weeks," said the Manchester City star, who was repeatedly injured after fouls.
“It was a miracle I played today because my ankle was definitely damaged.
A tear in my ligaments.
But I felt responsible to play for my country today. "
Frustrated by sport, the Red Devils left the Munich European Championship arena, the Italian Leonardo Spinazzola was in physical pain.
The defense attorney had been replaced on suspicion of a tear in the left Achilles tendon.
“It struck me very much to see him in tears.
The scene wasn't pretty to watch.
He was one of our best players this European Championship, ”said Mancini.
Curious: Before Barella made it 1-0, his team-mate Ciro Immobile would have liked to hear a penalty whistle in his favor. When Barella netted to make it 1-0, all pain was quickly forgotten at the former Dortmund Immobile. Many people scoffed at a supposed miracle cure. Pictures like this diminish the strong athletic appearances of the selection.