I've become a man at Arsenal: life in the Premier is spot on for hero Cesc

The Arsenal midfielder kept his cool to earn his country a 4-2 win on spot-kicks after a drab goalless draw. They now face Russia in the semis.

Breaking the cycle: Iker Casillas watches as team-mate Cesc Fabregas scores past Italy's goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon (above) and Fabregas wheels away in ecstasy

Fabregas revealed his debt to the Premier League when he said: 'I went to England a boy, now I feel like a man. I must say people in England have been great to me, at clubs like Manchester and Tottenham. Well... maybe not Tottenham!

'Yes, it's the first penalty I shoot. Since I was 15, I don't think I've taken one in any game.

'That goal looked a bit small when I looked up. But I wasn't nervous. This was a huge night and we're just delighted because we've been waiting a long time.'

Super-sub Fabregas remains a non-starter in a strong Spanish squad and he said: 'It's difficult to get into the side because the quality is high. But I'll be there when the coach needs me.'

Fabregas faces Russia's Andriy Arshavin in the second semi-final on Thursday and he said: 'He looks good so we are going to have to be careful. It's good to get to the semi but there's nothing done here. I still say we have to stay patient.'

Spanish fans may feel they have been patient enough. Last night was the first time Spain had beaten Italy since the 1920 Antwerp Olympics and also ended their run of penalty defeats at the World Cups of 1986 and 2002 as well as Euro 96.

'It is the most important goal of my life,' he said. 'We deserved our win. This is for the fans who came here in such large numbers.'

Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas was the other hero, saving from Daniele de Rossi and Antonio di Natale.

'I think we deserved it,' said the Real Madrid stopper. 'It was a very difficult game. It took a lot out us because it was so hot. 'To go out would have been harsh.'

Spain boss Luis Aragones felt his side were stifled by the world champions. 'We didn't play great football, nor did Italy,' said the veteran coach. 'We want to go and win it. The team is convinced they will get to the final, then anything can happen.

'They came to win it, if that was possible.'