World Cup: Hero Romero hails Argentina triumph

Goalkeeper Sergio Romero, whose heroics helped Argentina beat the Netherlands on penalties on Wednesday to progress to the World Cup final, said he was confident going into the shoot-out in Sao Paulo.

"Penalties are all about luck, that is the reality. I had confidence and thanks to God it turned out well," he admitted.

"We go away happy and now we will prepare for the final from tomorrow. The moment should be enjoyed and we are going step by step."

Romero's place in the national squad was the subject of debate going into the tournament after he spent almost all of the last season on the bench at Ligue 1 club Monaco.

Argentina's goalkeeper Sergio Romero blocks a shot by Netherlands' Ron Vlaar during a penalty shootout after extra time. -AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko

However, his penalty saves from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder helped Argentina win 4-2 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes at the Corinthians Arena and set up a final clash with Germany in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.

"Let's enjoy it. I am immensely happy. I dedicate this to my Mum and my wife," said Romero.

"We have hoped for this since the first day. These lads never give away anything."

Striker Sergio Aguero, who came off the bench and scored one of his side's penalties, was equally ecstatic at reaching the final.

"Very happy. This means so much. A lot of people didn't think Argentina would get to the final but we knew what players we had, very good players individually.

"The match was about seeing who make a mistake and nobody did," added the Manchester City striker.