© EuroFootball.com
Italian national team silenced the army of critics. In the first match of the European Championship Group C, C.Prandelli's team almost presented a big surprise - the Italians took the lead, but the world and European champions, the Spaniards, managed to equalize the result - 1-1.
The beginning of the match proved that an interesting game was ahead. The "Azzurri" played boldly and controlled the ball for a good amount of time. However, the first dangerous chances were created by the Spanish team - D.Silva struck over the crossbar, soon after the "Man City" player had a chance to score during a quick counterattack, but G.Buffon caught the ball.
Replacing his hairstyle, S.Ramos stopped A.Cassano at the edge of the penalty area, but the Italians failed to take advantage of the set piece.
A.Cassano, full of determination, launched two attacks, but the Spanish goalkeeper I.Casillas played without errors.
In the 44th minute, the duo from "Barcelona" Xavi and A.Iniesta forced the "Azzurri" defense to scramble. At the end of the first half, I.Casillas repelled T.Motta's header.
After the break, spectators awaited the sensational Italian player M.Balotelli's surprise - the forward took the ball and had a great opportunity to score, but for some reason hesitated and the Spaniards easily defended.
Annoyed, C.Prandelli substituted the 21-year-old "Man City" representative and this decision paid off handsomely.
A.Di Natale appeared on the field, received a great pass, and skillfully outplayed the Spanish goalkeeper. 0-1!
The European champions responded swiftly. In the 64th minute, the combination of D.Silva and C.Fabregas restored the parity - 1-1!
At the end of the match, the Spaniards tried to besiege the opponents' goal, but F.Torres wasted several opportunities to score, X.Alonso missed the target, and soon the final whistle sounded.
Statistics
Spain 1 - 1 Italy
61' [0 - 1] A.Di Natale
64' [1 - 1] C.Fabregas
