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A double from Antoine Griezmann and an intense first-half rearguard action saw hosts France stun World Cup champions Germany 2-0 and reach the final of Euro 2016.
Griezmann’s 45th minute penalty, after a clear handball from Bastian Schweinsteiger, broke the deadlock at the end of a half which had been dominated by Germany.
He added another for a tournament-leading tally of six in the 72nd to seal the tie.
Germany missed various chances through Thomas Mueller and Emre Can, and struck the woodwork late on through Joshua Kimmich but could not find a way past France keeper Hugo Lloris.
France held on for a first tournament win over Germany since 1958 and now meet Portugal in the Paris final on Sunday. They are seeking their third Euro crown and a first title since 2000.
With centre-back Mats Hummels suspended, Germany coach Joachim Loew reverted to four at the back after the Italy quarter-final with Benedikt Hoewedes partnering Jerome Boateng in the middle of the defence.
Schweinsteiger was fit to continue as the replacement for Sami Khedira while Julian Draxler and Can joined the midfield with Mueller pushed up front to replace the injured Mario Gomez.
France had N’Golo Kante and Adil Rami back from suspension but coach Didier Drogba instead backed the same eleven which had demolished Iceland in the last round, reshaping them into a bold 4-4-2.
They seized their opportunity as Schweinsteiger led with his arm attempting to clear a corner and, after consulting with his assistants, referee Nicola Rizzoli correctly pointed to the spot.
Griezmann, who missed a penalty in the Champions League final, made no mistake to by sending Manuel Neuer the wrong way.
Germany attempted to restore their control after the break but the France defence was resolute.
Loew’s side suffered another blow when Boateng went off injured on the hour to be replaced by Shkodran Mustafi.
A hideous touch in the box from Kimmich presented Pogba with the ball and, after he danced past Mustafi, Neuer flapped wildly at his cross.
Griezmann was positioned perfectly and poked home his second of the game.
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