Italy will face Britain for the America's Cup final after a convincing victory over the U.S. semifinalists on Thursday.

After the British crew defeated Switzerland in Barcelona, the Italians beat the United States in the semi-finals of the Louis Vuitton Cup first-to-five.

The British won their semi-final against Switzerland in the America's Cup Challenger Series on Wednesday, securing a spot in the Louis Vuitton Cup Final starting on September 26.

The "Auld Mug", the oldest sporting trophy in the world, dates back to 1851.

After Italy's victory in the finals, there were celebrations both on and off the water. Co-helm Francesco Bruni pumped his fists after crossing the finish.

On Wednesday, Italy's traveller track, an important part of its foiling monohull rig, was broken. It took all night to fix it.

"We're a super-strong team. We all deserve this victory." Bruni, who was speaking on the America's Cup broadcast live after the race finished, said that it had not been an easy night at the shed.

Jimmy Spithill, his co-helm, dedicated the victory -- which he called "one helluva fight" -- to Italy’s boat builders.

He said that the victory should go to his shore team, and when he entered their shed he found "a bunch of walking zombies".

The America's Cup is now over for the United States after their co-helm Paul Goodison broke five ribs when he fell through a hatch.

Tom Slingsby, co-helm of the U.S. team, said: "Congratulations! The better team won." He said: "We knew that we were in for a tough fight, and we've got our heads held high." (Reporting and editing by Ken Ferris; Alexander Smith)

(source: Reuters)