I said to a friend of mine last Wednesday that I had a feeling Italy
would be making it to the final of the Eurocup. I wasn’t thinking about
statistical or historical data (Germany has never defeated Italy in official
competition) but rather on Italy’s display through the tournament. They may not
be the best squad in the tournament but, in my opinion, they have been the best
team.
Left behind are the days when Italy was the catenaccio team with its
extremely defensive display and lack of offensive football. Prandelli has found
a new personality for this team, which still relies on solid defending but also
displays a swift transition defense to offence and vice-versa. Italy moves like
a unit and rather than giving the ball away, they play it really good thanks to
a stellar Pirlo.
Having said all that, Italy is up against the best squad in the
tournament. Rather than concentrating on defending or attacking, Spain is the
master of possession. If Spain wants to have the ball there is no much their
rivals could do. Though this may not guarantee victories, I believe whichever
team controls the ball has more chances of winning. Spain has also the
psychological advantage of knowing they are the team to beat. Prove of this is how
its rivals, even Italy, modify their initial formation when they play against
them.
It’s hard to say what will happen this Sunday, as these are, without
a doubt, the two best teams of the tournament. Italy needs no only an inspired
Pirlo but also a concentrated Ballotelli. He has shown he’s capable of the best
(his game against Germany) and the worst (his game against Spain). Spain on the
other hand needs to capitalize on the chances they get, which I expect will be
not many. May the best team win…