Italy managed to completely dominate world champions Spain in the recent match at the Confederations cup, which earned them the praise of Spanish manager Vicente del Bosque. It was only a year ago when Spain managed by Italy 4-0 in the final of the Euro 2012. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli said prior to the match that the hurtful defeat was still in their minds. Perhaps, it motivated them to play the game of their lives after they dominated a very strong Spanish team that has won all the major titles in the last five years.
However, they were made to pay for their poor finishing because Spain once again emerged victorious. The penalty shootout victory was confirmed after new Manchester city signing Jesus Navas put the ball past Gianluigi Buffon. After the match, though, Vicente del Bosque praised the Spanish team by saying that they were extremely hard-working and full of quality. He said that the Spanish team could simply not keep up with the Italians on the night and we were lucky to come out with a victory. As a result of the win, Spain will now be facing Brazil in the final of the competition.
Spain failed to win the Confederations cup last time around, and they will be facing the current holders.
“Emanuele Giaccherini was very impressive, as was Christian Maggio and naturally Andrea Pirlo. Cesare Prandelli deserves credit for speeding up their play down the wings with Maggio and Giaccherini, as their runs put Spain under real pressure. Alberto Gilardino had a fantastic game, he was constantly shaking off markers and holding up the ball for his teammates. He ensured Mario Balotelli was not missed,” said the Spanish manager after the match. The match finished 0-0 after extra time and Spain managed to win 7-6 on penalties.