ROTTERDAM, July 2 (Reuters) - French striker Thierry Henry said his team's mental strength had been crucial in coming back from behind to beat Italy 2-1 in the Euro 2000 final on Sunday.

	Henry crosses beyond Cannavaro (null/no_source)

Voted man-of-the-match for the third time in the tournament, Henry said: 'We have a great mentality. Against Italy we were 1-0 down and against Portugal (in the semifinals) we were 1-0 down.

'We have a lot of qualities but without the mental strength it would be difficult. We are going to see the fans in Paris (on Monday) and then we need a rest.'

A golden goal from substitute David Trezeguet clinched the victory after the French had scored a dramatic equaliser from substitute striker Sylvain Wiltord just seconds from the end of normal time.

'This team is fantastic,' goalkeeper Fabien Barthez said.

'We never gave up. We always kept our hope. I am really proud to be part of this team.

'After the match I told David Trezeguet: 'You are always there when we need you.' When I saw the ball at his feet I knew we would score.'