Euro 2012: Italy's Andrea Pirlo says Germany far more dangerous opponents than 'cautious' England "Hart seemed to be very confident in himself,"" Pirlo said. I needed to do something to beat him and it seemed to be a psychological blow. It was not madness. I decided when I saw Hart moving before the kick. I just had this inspiration. I didn't celebrate the penalty because at that point there was nothing to celebrate. We were still down. But it changed the course of the match. Even during the two hours that preceded the shoot-out, Pirlo dominated, showing his technique and range of passing. He constantly took responsibility in pressure situations, although he was helped by Wayne Rooney's failure to press him. "There have been many games in the past when I've had as much possession as against England," Pirlo said. Six years ago, Pirlo played a through ball to Fabio Grosso in Dortmund that helped sweep Italy to the World Cup final. In the club season recently concluded, Pirlo shone in Serie A, confirming Low's "renaissance" description. AC Milan surprisingly decided last year that Pirlo was surplus to requirements, a mistake echoing Decca Records" dismissal of The Beatles" credentials with a pithy "guitar bands are on the way out." Asked mischievously whether he would dedicate the penalty to Juventus's Andrea Agnelli or Milan's Adriano Galliani, Pirlo replied: "I dedicated this goal to all the Italian people. I have no grudge against Milan's management. I spent 10 fantastic years at Milan. Now he is at Juventus, helping bring "the same spirit and determination" into the national team. Creativity too. Pirlo pointed out that this was an age when technique was being celebrated. Look at Barcelona and Real Madrid. In the semi-finals (of the Euros) there are the best teams, who have all played attacking football (Italy, Germany, Portugal and Spain). We try to be creative and win the match. The Italian team could play without Pirlo as well. Germany have a lot of top players but Özil has a crucial role. But Germany are definitely scared of us, they know we can create difficulties for them. Pirlo has received praise from all around the globe. Tuesday's event at Casa Azzurri drew a media presence from China and the United States, Brighton and Rutland. Praise has gushed from all parts. Pirlo nodded appreciatively at mention that a German magazine carried a picture of him on the cover. Being in this magazine is a great honour because basically that means they really appreciated my game against England. The Euro 2012 semi-finalist and Serie A champion does not feel he is a contender for the Ballon d'Or. "It is almost impossible because Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo score 70 goals a year,"" said Pirlo, before voicing his delight in this spectacular international swansong. I always have pride when I wear the shirt. I am almost at the end of my career so I won't have much time to feel this emotion again.