Two European heavyweights Italy and Spain meet on Tuesday night in the semi-final of Euro 2020. The two Nations share one of Europe’s longest-standing rivalries. In fact, this will be their fourth successive meeting at the European Championships. Both Countries have have had contrasting run ups to this semi-final. Italy have been near perfect, winning all their games so including a battling 2-1 victory over star studded Belgium. Spain have had to struggle and grind their way till this stage winning only 1 game in normal time. Current form will be put aside however as both Countries tussle for pride and a place in Euro 2020 final.
Italy VS Spain is the highlight of the Euro 2020 semi-finals. Click here to bet on the semi-finals on NairaBET.
ITALY
To say Roberto Mancini is doing a great job with the Italian National Team would be an understatement. The former Inter Milan and Man City manager took on a daunting task when he accepted the job in 2018. Italy were in ruins and failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the first time in 60 years. In just 3 years however, Mancini has rebuilt the team with a perfect blend of experienced veterans and promising youngsters.
Italy under Mancini are now a European force to be reckoned with again. The Italian manager has transformed the side into a perfectly balanced, strong team. They are currently on a spectacular run of 32 games unbeaten and are one of the favourites for Euro2020. The Italians are also the only team to have won all their matches so far @ Euro2020. A victory over Spain and making the final of Euro 2020 would be a testament to Mancini’s team. A win over eternal rivals Spain would also mean a lot to Italian fans back home.
Italy are unbeaten in 32 matches. Will they extend the record? Click here to bet on Italy double chance @ 1.38 on NairaBET.
SPAIN
Spain are a shadow of their dominant self from 10 years ago. When La Roja won Euro 2012, they had won back to back European Championships and were World Champions. They had established themselves as one of the greatest teams in history. All that seems a distant memory however. They crashed out of the 2014 World Cup at the group stage and the Round of 16 in 2018. Luis Enrique’s appointment has brought some positives however particularly their 6-0 victory over Germany. They have however struggled in this tournament, drawing their first 2 matches with lackluster performances. In fact, not everyone expected them to make it this far.
Spain are still the most successful team in European Championship history however having lifted the trophy in 1964, 2008 and 2012. They are still a top side with top players motivated to redeem their Country’s image. Luis Enrique’s decision not to take any Real Madrid player to the Euros is still under the spotlight. The former Barcelona manager will be hoping the decision will not come back to bite him. This is Italy’s first real test in Euro2020 so far.
Spain have 12 wins over Italy. Will they make it 13? Click here to bet on Spain to win @ 3.25 odd on NairaBET.
HEAD TO HEAD
Spain have a superior head to head advantage over Italy. In 33 matches between the 2 Countries, Spain have 12 wins while Italy have 9. The pair have drawn 12 times. Italy beat Spain 2-0 the last time both Countries met at the European Championships in 2016. Spain however beat Italy 3-0 the last time both Countries met in a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
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