A tactical masterclass from Italy ensured that Spain did not
have a chance to defend their Euro crown as they sank to a 2-0 defeat. This was
not supposed to be the way the game was supposed to pan out. Italy had a clear
plan in mind - they defended in packs and broke out with pace at any
opportunity they got to attack and they got lots of chance to do that as the Spanish
midfield crumbled. David De Gea had to
make a couple of vital saves early on before Italy got the breakthrough in the
33'. Ramos fouled Pelle at the edge of the box and the resulting free-kick was
rifled in low by Eder. De Gea got down to stop it but could only push it out.
As the defenders raced to clear the loose ball, Chiellini bundled it in. Though
they controlled possession, Spain never really threatened Italy though Buffon
had to be on hand to produce a couple of good saves. Late in injury-time, Spain
was caught out in a break and Darmian's ball found Pelle, who volleyed it in
emphatically as Conte went mad on the touchline.
Italy are up against Germany in the quarter-finals.
Goals
ITA: Chiellini 33', Pelle 90+2'
Highlights: https://goo.gl/74ADbs
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