Euro 2012 final: 5 key things you need to know,point of winners
The title clash between Spain and Italy surely seems to be a mouth-watering affair. Here are the five key things you need to know about the Euro 2012 final.
Spain’s date with history
This is the opportunity for Spain to go down as the best international side in history. A win on Sunday in Kiev would give them titles in three consecutive major tournaments, a feat achieved by no other nation. A victory would also give them a record-equalling third European title, which will bring them level with Germany.
Italy’s obstacles
Speaking of 2006, it’s a case of deja vu for the Azzurri. Back then, the effects of the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal were supposed to shatter Italy’s dreams of winning another World Cup. Instead, the team rallied and claimed its fourth world title. Six years later, Italy is reeling from another spasm of match-fixing allegations, and on this occasion, it even forced the removal of defender Domenico Criscito from the squad. But again, the Azzurri have managed to pull together and reach the final.
Peerless Pirlo
He has only one goal in Euro 2012 — a gorgeous free kick against Croatia — but Pirlo’s contribution goes way beyond mere numbers, and he has been the player of the tournament so far. The Juventus man has been unflappable on the ball in midfield, and his ability to control the game’s tempo has been invaluable to a side that isn’t exactly teaming with creative players. Pirlo will no doubt have his hands full when he goes up against Spain’s potent midfield, but he’ll be a joy to watch no matter which side comes out on top.
Striking concerns
The performance level of the respective front lines could not be more different. In Spain’s case, there hasn’t been a ‘front line’ as such, with manager Vicente Del Bosque at times using a false nine in Cesc Fabregas, with some calling it a 4-6-0 formation. To be fair, the Spain manager also has dabbled with using Torres or Negredo. Neither approach has seen Spain reach its peak. Italy, by contrast, have two forwards peaking at the right time.
Boring or brilliant?
Spain’s tiki-taka style of football which has won so many plaudits over the last five years is now being labelled by many as ‘boring’. That’s primarily because the team has shown little ambition while in possession. They have looked reluctant to shoot at times. But keeping the ball is an art and Spain have mastered it. Whether it wins them another trophy will be known tonight.
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