Germany captain Michael Ballack admitted his team's strength has been sapped after going through extra-time and penalties to defeat Argentina, but promised the prospect of reaching the World Cup final would get the adrenalin pumping against Italy on Tuesday.

Germany take on Italy in Dortmund in the first of the semi-finals with the host nation trying to recharge their batteries for the final push.

"It was a hard slog playing 120 minutes against Argentina but we have had a few days to recharge and can give everything again. There is no problem there," Ballack told reporters on Monday. "Everyone is fit and refreshed. You do not feel tired when you are winning."

Germany are doing just that with five consecutive wins. They go into the Italy match full of confidence.

"I cannot wait for this match. The team wants to reach the final and we all sense that," the 29-year-old midfielder said.