Italy coach Antonio Conte admits even they began Euro 2016 with low expectations but progress made has given them the confidence to overcome every hurdle.

Victories over Belgium, one of the favourites, and Sweden put them into the knockout stage with a match to spare and even the late defeat to the Republic of Ireland failed to dent their spirits.

Having seen off defending champions Spain they now face world champions Germany - a repeat of the Euro 2012 semi-final which Italy won only to then be crushed 4-0 by the Spaniards.

"We started with very low expectations. We're showing we can overcome insurmountable obstacles," Conte, whose side lost 4-1 in a friendly against Joachim Low's side earlier this year, told his pre-match press conference.

"We've improved since the March friendly. It was a resounding defeat and it will motivate us to see if the gap has closed.

"Germany are the best team in the world but no-one is beaten at the start of a game.

"They can hurt you when they attack; they've quality, talent and a great team ethic. It's a potent mix.

"We've looked to find out how we can limit them and play the cards in our hand instead by knowing their strengths and weaknesses.

"We have to do something extraordinary: I tell the players that we live and train to play in matches that make you feel great."

Conte was non-committal on whether midfielder Daniele de Rossi, who was forced off in the win over Spain with a thigh injury, would be fit.

"De Rossi's in a passable condition but I won't say more. I'm confident in my decisions and in my potential substitutions."