The memory 17 years Italy over Spain
Against Spanish, coach Cesare Prandelli gave awards to Antonio Cassano. As players from Bari, Cassano believed to be a captain in this match.
Antonio Cassano and Giuseppe Rossi paired as a striker, with the backing of Ricardo Montolivo as a playmaker, Cassano led Gli Azzurri look impressive in the early minutes of the game. A hard kick Domenico Criscito that still hit the goalpost into the host's first chance in this match.
In the 10th minute, Italy went ahead. Starting from the Criscito assist, Montolivo who escaped the offside trap to score a beautiful chip kick which could not be anticipated by Iker Casillas.
Four minutes later, misfortune La Furia Roja increases. Fernando Torres injured and replaced by Fernando Llorente.
Llorente's presence turned the Spanish attack. Giorgio Chiellini commits an offense by pulling the shirt Llorente and gave a penalty for the visitors. Xabi Alonso, who became executor of the penalty easily beat Gianluigi Buffon in the 37th minute.
Casillas appearance in the first half deserved praise. Several times the Spanish captain was thwarted opportunities to obtain the host. Before halftime, Spain had to face the harsh reality. Gerard Pique suffered injuries and should be replaced by Sergio Busquets.
In the second half, Spain appear more aggressive. Contrary to the first half, this time La Furia Roja are dominating the game.
Several times the Spanish have a dangerous opportunity. But, Gli Azzurri also had a great goakeeper. Buffon managed to break all the opportunities that have the Spanish team.
Six minutes before the game ended, the hosts created the winning goal. Getting assist from Giampaolo Pazzini, Alberto Aquilani shot that first hit the other players managed to fool Victor Valdes. 2-1 score lasted until the long whistle sounded.
This is the first victory Gli Azzurri over La Furia Roja in the last 17 years. The last time Italy won over Spain occurred in the 1994 World Cup quarter-final, also with a score of 2-1.
Category Article World Soccer
