04 July 2006 – Dortmund, Germany
Some football matches transcend the moment and become timeless. Italy’s 2–0 extra-time victory over Germany in the 2006 World Cup semi-final is one of them — a tactical masterclass, a test of willpower, and ultimately, a triumph sealed by two unforgettable goals in the dying minutes of extra time.
High Stakes in Dortmund
Played in front of a deafening, pro-German crowd at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion — a venue where the hosts had never lost — the stage was set for a clash of European titans. Italy, with one of the tournament’s best defences, faced a vibrant German side led by a young, fearless Jürgen Klinsmann.
For 118 minutes, the game was a nerve-shredding stalemate: Germany came close through Bernd Schneider and Lukas Podolski, while Italy hit the woodwork twice in extra time — once through Alberto Gilardino and again via Gianluca Zambrotta.
Cannavaro: A Defensive Masterclass
At the heart of Italy’s resilience stood Fabio Cannavaro, delivering one of the greatest defensive performances in World Cup history. Commanding, intelligent, and fearless, the Italian captain was everywhere — intercepting passes, blocking shots, and outmuscling Miroslav Klose in duels.
One moment late in extra time epitomised his night: after clearing a dangerous cross with a perfectly timed header, Cannavaro sprinted forward, won a second ball, and set in motion the counterattack that led to Del Piero’s goal. It was a superhuman effort from a player at the peak of his powers — a performance that helped seal his eventual Ballon d'Or later that year.
119' – Grosso’s Moment of Magic
With penalties looming, Andrea Pirlo received the ball just outside the box and with a characteristic turn of vision and precision, threaded a perfect pass into the path of Fabio Grosso. The left-back curled the ball with his weaker right foot into the far corner past Jens Lehmann. It was a stunning, dramatic goal. Grosso wheeled away in disbelief, screaming “Non ci credo!” (I don’t believe it!) as Italy’s bench erupted.
121' – The Del Piero Clincher
As Germany pushed forward in desperation, Italy struck again. A lightning-quick counterattack saw Francesco Totti release Alessandro Del Piero, who elegantly lifted the ball over Lehmann into the top corner — a signature Del Piero finish. Just like that, Italy had booked their place in the World Cup Final.
04/07/06 - 2006 World Cup Semi-Final
— My Greatest 11 (@MyGreatest11) July 4, 2024
Italy 2-0 Germany
119th Min - Grosso
121st Min - Del Piero pic.twitter.com/FPDnoCoNgO
The Aftermath
Italy’s win ended Germany’s unbeaten World Cup record in Dortmund and confirmed Marcello Lippi’s side as a tournament force. The Azzurri would go on to beat France on penalties in the Berlin final, but many regard this semi-final as their defining performance — a night where composure, discipline and a dash of genius carried them through. And at the core of it all was their indomitable captain, Fabio Cannavaro.