The world champions ended up winning 2-0 to progress to a quarter-final match-up against Spain.

But the AC Milan midfielder picked up his second booking of Euro 2008 with the foul and will not be available for Sunday's' showdown in Vienna.

Pirlo, who scored the opener from the penalty spot, and was arguably his country's best player in the group stage, said: "Unfortunately I picked up a yellow card and there was little I could do about it.

"I knew I had to make the tackle because it was a fast counter-attack from France and I had to stop the play considering we had at the other end of the pitch Simone Perrotta down because of injury."

However, Pirlo could not hide his delight as Italy progressed also thanks to Holland's 2-0 triumph over Romania in the other Group C game.

"I'm very happy with the result and with my goal," he added.

"We knew this was going to be a very difficult game for us but we battled and we got the result we wanted.

"We also have to thank Holland, as their result has allowed us to progress. Holland have proved what a strong team they are."

Italy coach Roberto Donadoni will have no choice but to reshuffle his midfield for the clash against Spain with Pirlo's Milan team-mate Gennaro Gattuso also unavailable having picked up his second booking.

However, Pirlo believes his team-mates will come up with the goods.

"There are many players that can take my role," said Pirlo.

"The important thing is that we play with the same fighting spirit we showed against France to go far in this tournament."