Italy utilized a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Gianluigi Buffon as the last line of defense, supported by a solid back four, including Fabio Grosso who provided width and attacking support on the left flank. Gattuso and Pirlo operated as the double pivot, controlling the midfield. Totti, positioned as the attacking midfielder, was crucial for dictating the play and linking up with forwards Gilardino and Toni. Australia, in a 4-4-2 setup, relied on Cahill and Aloisi to press high and exploit any defensive lapses. However, despite their effective pressing and compactness, they were often thwarted by Italy's strategy of quick transitions and patient buildup. The pivotal moment arose in injury time when Grosso was adjudged to have been fouled leading to Totti's decisive penalty, overshadowing Australia's commendable performance throughout the match.